Leaky gut – when the small intestine doesn’t hold tight

Unlike the large intestine, the small intestine lacks a protective mucus layer, making it more sensitive—especially when there’s bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine (SIBO). This allows bacteria and toxins to more easily come into direct contact with the intestinal wall and activate immune receptors on the intestinal cells. This can trigger inflammation, which may cause the gut wall to suddenly allow substances to pass through that would normally be kept out. This condition is known as leaky gut.

An Overview of Leaky Gut

How does leaky gut develop?

Causes of leaky gut

What happens in the body with leaky gut?

Understand the mechanism

Signs of leaky gut

Local & systemic

Is there a test for Leaky Gut?

Can we take it at home?

Signs of leaky gut

Digestive

Whole-body

Immune-related

Mood & nervous system

Other

How does leaky gut develop?

When bacteria and toxins come into direct contact with the intestinal wall and activate immune receptors, inflammation can occur. It is primarily this inflammation that causes the gut to become “leaky,” although the bacteria and toxins themselves can also contribute to and worsen the condition.

Common causes of leaky gut:

Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine (SIBO) is found in most cases of leaky gut.
Chronic stress.
Long-term use of omeprazole or other long-term acid-reducing medications.
High intake of sugar, alcohol, or processed foods

What happens in the body with leaky gut?

When the intestinal wall becomes permeable, bacteria and toxins can leak into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. This can:

Disrupt the immune system and cause chronic low-grade inflammation.
Affect the gut’s nervous system, leading to symptoms like bloating, pain, and diarrhea.
Spread through the bloodstream and contribute to systemic health problems such as skin issues, joint pain, brain fog, metabolic issues and fatigue.

Is there a test for Leaky Gut?

When symptoms suggest changes in gut barrier function, the first step is to understand what may be contributing to them. SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) is one possible factor, but symptoms can also have other causes, including food sensitivities, histamine intolerance and other digestive or lifestyle-related factors. Identifying the underlying factors can help guide the right approach.

Did you know you can test for leaky gut?

Gutfeeling Labs offers a patent-pending urine test for leaky gut and SIBO that can be taken at home. Unlike traditional SIBO breath tests, the test uses a urine sample, making sample collection simple and convenient.

The test is designed to assess markers associated with intestinal permeability and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. You receive your results together with guidance to help you better understand what they may mean in relation to your gut health.

Learn more about the Leaky Gut & SIBO Test

What if SIBO is part of the picture?

If your results indicate SIBO, addressing the bacterial overgrowth may be an important part of supporting gut health. Gutfeeling Labs’ GutClear® is a plant-based supplement developed to support healthy gut function in the context of SIBO and leaky gut.

Learn more about GutClear®

Learn more about Leaky gut

IBS, SIBO, and Leaky Gut: All you need to know

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a common gastrointestinal condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Many living with IBS experience bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation. Research has shown that up to 85% of people with IBS have SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).

This is how you can strengthen and restore a Leaky Gut

A leaky gut (increased intestinal permeability) means that the tight junctions in the mucosa of the small intestine have weakened. This allows unabsorbed substances, such as undigested food particles and endotoxins, to pass into the bloodstream and trigger the immune system..

What Is Leaky Gut? Symptoms, Causes and What Research Says

Leaky gut” is a commonly used term for increased intestinal permeability, meaning that the intestinal barrier allows substances to pass through differently than under normal conditions. The intestinal barrier helps regulate what passes from the gut into the body while supporting nutrient absorption and protecting against potentially harmful substances.

Leaky Gut and Diet – What Should You Eat and Avoid?

There is no universal diet for leaky gut. Focus on a varied, nutritious diet containing foods that you tolerate well. Fatty fish, vegetables, olive oil, high-fibre foods and other nutritious ingredients can be part of the diet. At the same time, it may be beneficial to limit large amounts of ultra-processed foods, added sugar, alcohol and other foods that you notice worsen your symptoms.