LEAKY GUT? - Have you heard of the GAPS diet: "Gut and Psychology Syndrome"

"Gut and Psychology Syndrome" was designed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride. It is an elimination diet that requires gradual removal and reintroduction of grains, pasteurized dairy, starchy vegetables and refined carbs throughout a time span of aprox. 2 years. It’s promoted as a natural treatment for people with namely neurological pathologies, allergic conditions and autoimmune diseases due to the proven connection with these pathological conditions and Leaky Gut Syndrome (intestinal wall permeability). Major factors associated with increased gut permeability should be assessed beforehand. These include gut dysbiosis and yeast overgrowth, use of NSAIDs and alcohol, food hypersensitivities, food intolerances, small bacterial overgrowth, systemic inflammation, psychosocial stressors, some infections (e.g., HIV) and dietary patterns (namely lactose intolerance and fructose malabsorption). (Simeonova D, et al. Curr Top Med Chem. 2018). Stool samples can be used to assess gut dysbiosis, gut inflammation and decreased mucosal defenses through assays of fecal growth of bacteria, yeast and fungi and stool assays of calprotectin, secretory IgA, β-defensin, α- antitrypsin, lysozyme and lactoferrin. (Simeonova D, et al. Curr Top Med Chem. 2018). This restrictive diet is controversial and I suggest additional orthomolecular and/phytotherapeutic supplementation to address deficiencies and leaky gut, of course. Those on the GAPS diet are advised to take daily fish oil, cod liver oil or a cold-pressed nut and seed oil blend (2:1 ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids). People often have low stomach acid production, which calls for supplementation with betaine HCl or beetroot juice before each meal. Some people may need to take additional digestive enzymes to support digestion. Probiotics will help restore the beneficial bacteria in the gut... but which strains may you ask? And what complementary supplements will aid to intestinal wall integrity?... See a Naturopath to find out more.. . #gapsdiet #guthealth #leakygutsyndrome