What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky Gut Syndrome, also known as increased intestinal permeability, is a condition where the lining of the intestines becomes damaged, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria to pass through into the bloodstream. This can lead to inflammation, immune system overactivation, and various chronic health issues, including digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases, food sensitivities, and even neurological symptoms.

A healthy gut acts as a barrier, regulating what enters the bloodstream. However, factors such as poor diet, stress, infections, medications (such as antibiotics and NSAIDs), and environmental toxins can compromise this barrier, leading to the onset of leaky gut.

Symptoms of Leaky Gut Syndrome

• Digestive issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation

• Food sensitivities: Increased reactions to certain foods

• Chronic inflammation: Joint pain, skin conditions like eczema and acne

• Brain fog and fatigue: Difficulty concentrating, low energy

• Autoimmune conditions: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus

• Frequent infections: Weak immune function leading to recurrent illnesses

Identifying Leaky Gut Syndrome with KBMO Gut Barrier Panel

KBMO Diagnostics offers a comprehensive Gut Barrier Panel, which measures key markers associated with intestinal permeability and inflammation. This test analyzes antibodies in the blood to detect the presence of:

Key Markers in the Gut Barrier Panel:

1. Candida – A common fungal overgrowth that can contribute to dysbiosis and gut barrier dysfunction.

2. Zonulin – A protein responsible for regulating tight junctions between intestinal cells. Elevated levels indicate compromised intestinal integrity.

3. Occludin – A structural protein that helps maintain the gut lining. Increased levels suggest tight junction breakdown and inflammation.

4. LPS (Lipopolysaccharides) – Toxins found in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. High levels are associated with inflammation, systemic toxicity, and autoimmune conditions.

How the KBMO Gut Barrier Panel Works

The test measures both IgG 1-4/C3d and IgA 1-2 antibodies to provide a comprehensive assessment of gut barrier integrity:

• IgG 1-4/C3d: Indicates long-term or chronic exposure to harmful gut barrier components.

• IgA 1-2: Measures more recent immune responses, helping identify active leaky gut issues.

If positive markers are detected, it strongly suggests that the gut lining is compromised, leading to increased permeability and systemic inflammation.

Steps to Heal Leaky Gut

If your Gut Barrier Panel test results indicate leaky gut, here are the foundational steps to begin healing:

1. Remove Gut Irritants

   • Eliminate processed foods, sugar, gluten, dairy, and alcohol.

   • Avoid overuse of NSAIDs and antibiotics.

2. Repair with Gut-Healing Nutrients

   • Incorporate bone broth, collagen, L-glutamine, zinc, and omega-3s.

   • Increase intake of anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens.

3. Restore a Healthy Microbiome

   • Take high-quality probiotics and prebiotic-rich foods (e.g., garlic, onions, bananas).

   • Eat fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir.

4. Reduce Stress & Support Digestion

   • Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, and proper sleep.

   • Chew food thoroughly and consider digestive enzymes to aid digestion.

Why Testing Matters

Leaky gut symptoms often overlap with other conditions, making it difficult to diagnose without testing. The KBMO Gut Barrier Panel offers a precise way to determine whether leaky gut is contributing to your symptoms. By identifying the underlying issue, a targeted healing protocol can be implemented to restore gut integrity and improve overall health.

Get Tested & Take Control of Your Health

If you suspect you have leaky gut or experience chronic inflammation, digestive issues, or autoimmune symptoms, consider getting tested with the KBMO Gut Barrier Panel. Addressing leaky gut at its root cause can be the key to long-term wellness, reducing inflammation, and preventing chronic disease.