A compromised gut lining is a gateway for systemic inflammation, and a root cause of many conditions.
Leaky gut, formally known as intestinal hyperpermeability, occurs when the tight junctions of the gut lining become damaged, allowing partially digested food particles, microbial toxins, and other substances to enter the bloodstream. This triggers immune responses that can drive systemic inflammation, food sensitivities, autoimmune activation, skin conditions, and brain fog, often with no obvious digestive symptoms to connect the dots.
Leaky gut is both a root cause and a consequence of many chronic conditions. Infections, mold toxicity, heavy metals, chronic stress, and poor diet can all compromise gut barrier integrity, creating a cycle that perpetuates illness throughout the body. Healing the gut lining is a foundational priority in root cause medicine.