There’s been much discussion as of the recent discovery of zonulin a molecule that’s responsibility lies in guarding the tight junctions of the intestinal lining. Zonulin is a “gate keeper” that open the tight junctions to allow medications and nutrients providing a safe barrier from toxins that need to travel to the liver from getting into the bloodstream. However if zonulin is provoked to open further, larger molecules can get through producing “leaky gut”. Researchers have discovered that there are two items that can provoke the zonulin to open its gates. They are pathogens and gluten (even in non-celiac cases).
PrimalDocs summarized the list of what can increase zonulin and promote leaky gut:
Overgrowth of harmful organisms, like bacteria or yeast in the intestine
SIBO = small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
Fungal dysbiosis or candida overgrowth
Parasite infections
Gliadin in the diet (gluten containing foods)
Leaky gut results in a heightened antibodies response, chronic inflammation and toxins leading in the bloodstream and potentially penetrating the blood brain barrier. This summary emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive stool analysis, SIBO test and removing gliadin entirely from the diet.
