Leaky Gut – St. Cloud, FL

Improve Your Gut Health, Improve Your Wellness

Woman holding her stomach, concerned about leaky gut in St. Cloud

Gut health is a huge part of overall wellness. When your gut and your digestive system are working properly, you can enjoy increased energy, better moods, a reduction in aches and pains, and an array of other benefits. Unfortunately, though, many people suffer from a condition known as leaky gut in St. Cloud. What is leaky gut, what symptoms does it cause, and how can Dr. Murphy and our team help you overcome it? Read on below to find the answers.

Why Choose Holistic Medicine Wellness Center for Leaky Gut Treatment?

Highly Educated Holistic Doctor
Conservative, Natural Treatment Options
Improve Your Overall Health

What Is Leaky Gut?

Illustration showing how leaky gut syndrome works

Your gut, also known as your gastrointestinal tract, places a barrier between what you eat and the rest of your body. This barrier is only a single cell thick; its very thin nature allows properly digested nutrients to get into the bloodstream and support your health.

However, in some cases, the barrier between your gut and the rest of your body malfunctions. It may begin to allow toxins, bacteria, and undigested food to sneak into your body. This problem is called leaky gut or increased intestinal permeability.

What Causes Leaky Gut?

Junk food, a possible cause of increased intestinal permeability

There are many possible causes of leaky gut, including:

A poor diet. Overconsumption of starches and processed foods can lead to inflammation in the gut. Many people also do not consume enough probiotics and prebiotics.
Chronic stress. A high-stress lifestyle can irritate the gut and interfere with its function.
Overuse of certain medications. NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, may cause leaky gut if they are used too frequently.
Toxin exposure. These toxins may be in foods or in the environment.

Symptoms of Leaky Gut

Tired businessman at desk, experiencing leaky gut symptoms

There are quite a few symptoms that can be associated with leaky gut because the gut has such as powerful influence on the rest of the body. Some indications that you might be suffering from leaky gut include:

Asthma
Autoimmune conditions, such as arthritis, lupus, and psoriasis
Chronic fatigue
Fibromyalgia
Brain fog
Food intolerances and allergies
Anxiety and depression
ADHD
Seasonal allergies
Skin problems, such as acne and eczema
Seemingly unexplained weight gain

Addressing Leaky Gut

Healthy meal that may play a role in healing leaky gut

The goal of functional medicine is to help patients achieve improved health through the most conservative, natural means possible. When it comes to healing leaky gut, Dr. Murphy often uses the 5-R Protocol, which involves five steps:

Removing sources of toxins or irritation to the gut
Replacing missing digestive enzymes or nutrients
Repopulating the gut’s microbiome with healthy bacteria
Repairing the gut lining
Rebalancing various lifestyle factors

The 5-R Protocol is customized for each patient. Typically, it involves dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. For example, you may need to cut out processed foods and other sources of inflammation, as well as take steps to reduce stressors in your life. Dr. Murphy also frequently recommends high-quality supplements to support gut health.

Are you curious about what you can do to heal your gut and feel better on a daily basis? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.