Microbiome Regulation (Leaky Gut)
Microbiome Regulation is an emerging alternate therapy for the treatment of various gastro-intestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome and leaky gut syndrome. It can also be used as supportive therapy in the treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (Chrohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, etc.). Therapy involves the use of supplements and corrective diet to regulate the balance of the micro-organisms which make up our gut microbiome.
Generally, a microbiome is a community of various micro-organisms which inhabit a particular environment; specifically, it refers to those living throughout the human body. The gut microbiome is the environment within the small and large intestines. A healthy gut is an important part of our immune response system.
Symptoms:
An unbalanced gut microbiome can cause many uncomfortable symptoms, from gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramping to fatigue/low energy, depression or anxiety.
Diagnosis:
Because there are different kinds of gastro-intestinal issues which can either cause or result from an unbalanced gut microbiome, diagnosis begins with discussing your symptoms with your health care provider, who may choose to run further diagnostic tests.
Treatment:
Treatment begins with determining potential dietary causes, and recommending appropriate changes in diet. Specific probiotics and supplements may be added. Certain conditions may also require medication.
FAQ
Experts do not yet know the cause of leaky gut. However, there are known factors which can disrupt the gut microbiome: poor nutrition, infections, autoimmune disorders and diabetes. Certain lifestyle habits can be harmful as well, such as smoking, alcohol consumption and stress. Even certain medications can cause a gut microbiome imbalance.
Depending on your symptoms, your health care provider may choose to run blood tests, stool tests, or imaging tests.
What are probiotics, and how do they help the gut microbiome? Probiotics are the “good” bacteria that live in your gastro-intestinal tract. They come from cultured foods we eat, such as yogurt, kefir and buttermilk, and fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchee.