Understand the leaky gut debate

What to Do

Be cautious with the term "leaky gut syndrome" — it's real biology but often oversimplified in wellness marketing. Increased intestinal permeability is a measurable phenomenon, but it's usually a symptom of other conditions rather than a root cause.

Why It Works

The medical community recognizes increased intestinal permeability in conditions like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and severe burns. However, the wellness industry's framing of "leaky gut" as causing everything from brain fog to autoimmunity outpaces the evidence. Most interventions marketed for leaky gut lack rigorous clinical trials.

Tips

• If someone diagnoses you with "leaky gut syndrome," seek a second opinion from a gastroenterologist
• Focus on treating underlying conditions rather than the permeability itself
• Validated tests for permeability exist (lactulose-mannitol ratio) but aren't routine
• The science is evolving — stay skeptical of definitive claims from either side