Leaky Gut Syndrome: A Modern Epidemic

Leaky Gut Syndrome (LGS) is potentially a major cause of illness in modern society. In LGS, the epithelium on the villi of the small intestine becomes in- flamed and irritated, which allows metabolic and microbial toxins of the small intestines to flood into the blood stream. This event compromises the liver, the lymphatic system, and the immune response including the endocrine system. lt is often the primary cause of the following common conditions: asthma, food allergies, chronic sinusitis, eczema, urticaria, migraine, irritable bowel, fungal disorders, fibromyalgia, and inflammatory joint disorders including rheumatoid arthritis. lt can also contribute to PMS, uterine fibroid, and breast fibroid. In discussing LGS, we will first describe it in terms of western physiology and then discuss aspects of LGS presentation and treatment that are unique to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

What modern event allowed such a break-down? Primarily it has been antibiotics, and secondarily, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Damage to the intestinal lining from NSAIDs and destruction of natural microbiome by excessive use of antibiotics can increase permeability of the gut and proliferation of pathogens like Candida. 

Pattern focused direction for selecting acupuncture approaches. herbal formulas, dietary recommendations, with an emphasis on building confidence in clinical decision making for treatment of Leaky Gut Syndromes and Candida.