Anxiety is a complex condition, and most of us feel anxious from time to time. But the medical term for anxiety (general anxiety disorder) currently affects around 3% of the population.
A lesser-known contributor to anxiety issues is a "leaky gut." Despite the unusual-sounding name, this condition is something that can have quite a dramatic effect on your health and well-being.
This blog post will explore the link between the "leaky gut" and leaky gut anxiety. We'll outline the symptoms and potential remedies.
The Gut-Brain Axis
The gut-brain axis connects the brain and the stomach. It helps the body coordinate and control the functions of both.
The axis has different parts, like the enteric nervous system, hormones, immunity, bacteria in the gut, and the vagus nerve. Stress, diet, and bacteria can affect it.
When the axis doesn't work right, it can cause health problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, depression, autism, and obesity.
Leaky Gut Syndrome: What Is It?
Leaky gut syndrome, while often overlooked and considered an exaggeration of symptoms, is an actual condition that affects many people today.
It occurs when the lining of the intestines becomes permeable, allowing bacteria, toxins, and undigested food particles to pass into the bloodstream.
The Causes of Leaky Gut
There are numerous potential causes of leaky gut. Scientists are discovering more every day. Here's what we know:
Diet
You are what you eat – and unfortunately, a diet high in refined sugars, processed foods, and artificial ingredients can lead to leaky gut syndrome by making your gut more permeable.
Cutting out junk food is a simple step to better health.
Inflammation
Do you suffer from Crohn's, irritable bowel syndrome, or celiac disease? If so, you're at risk of developing leaky gut syndrome.
Chronic inflammation caused by these conditions damages the protective lining of the gut, making it more permeable and allowing particles to slip through into your bloodstream. Left untreated, this can cause further health problems.
Stress
Are you experiencing chronic emotional or mental stress? It could be taking a toll on your digestion, leading to leaky gut syndrome.
That is when the typically tight junctions between intestinal cells become too permeable, allowing toxic substances to pass through.
Alcohol
Do you know that having too much to drink can wreak havoc on your gut health?
Excessive alcohol consumption damages the gut lining, causing increased permeability and potentially leading to leaky gut syndrome.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics have been known to disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and damage the intestinal lining, both of which can contribute to leaky gut syndrome.
Autoimmune Disease
Do you suffer from lupus or rheumatoid arthritis? It's time to pay attention to your gut. Autoimmune diseases can damage your gut lining and make it more permeable, causing leaky gut syndrome.
The Symptoms of Leaky Gut
You may suffer symptoms of leaky gut and not realize the possible cause. Common symptoms of leaky gut syndrome include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea, constipation, or both
- Bloating and gas
- Food sensitivities
- Fatigue and weakness
- Malnutrition
- Skin conditions such as eczema
- Joint pain
- Headaches
- Anxiety and depression
You could have only one, several, or almost all of these symptoms.
So after reading through the list, are you noticing any of the symptoms associated with leaky gut syndrome?
If so, without prompt treatment, the leaky gut syndrome can exacerbate underlying immune system issues. That makes it harder to heal your intestines. The sooner you take action, the more your gut health will benefit.
Leaky Gut and Anxiety
Can leaky gut cause anxiety? For anyone wondering if there is a connection between their physical health and mental well-being, recent research has pointed to the answer they have been searching for: leaky gut syndrome.
Leaky gut syndrome is one of the causes of anxiety and other mental health conditions, such as depression.
Medication and psychotherapy may be necessary components of a comprehensive treatment plan for mental health. But we must address our body's physical condition to make any real headway in our recovery.
Leaky gut anxiety is a term used to describe the type of anxiety symptoms that arise from the toxins that are entering the bloodstream.
The symptoms of leaky gut anxiety are typical anxiety but with a unique twist.
A person experiencing generalized anxiety may feel the typical signs, including shortness of breath, racing heart, and feelings of panic.
But those with leaky gut anxiety usually feel intense, long-lasting, and all-encompassing anxiety throughout their body due to the toxins entering their bloodstream.
The root cause of leaky gut anxiety is believed to be a combination of an unhealthy diet and lifestyle habits that can lead to a weakened and damaged intestine.
New Pathways for Healing Mentally and Physically
Probiotics are a way to help you get better physically and mentally if you have worries caused by leaky gut. Probiotics contain helpful bacteria that can help restore balance in your digestive system and promote a healthy gut.
Studies show that probiotics can make people less anxious and depressed and reduce swelling in the gut.
In addition, the good bacteria in probiotics can reduce the number of things like zonulin and gliadin, which often cause leaky gut and inflammation. This can help fix the walls of your intestines and lessen inflammation.
Unlock Optimal Digestion and Support Your Gut
Leaky gut can have several adverse health effects. They include mood issues such as leaky gut anxiety.
If you're experiencing anxiety, speak to your doctor. But also look at the link between anxiety and gut health.
Consider a lifestyle change, such as modifying your diet. It could help reduce the symptoms of a leaky gut and combat anxiety.
Probiotic supplements will also give you that added support. Our total line of probiotics has everything you need to support optimal gut health. View our product range here.
