Researchers estimate that two-thirds of our immune activity occurs in the gut. Foods to which we have a specific sensitivity can alter the permeability of the intestinal lining. The immune system treats this “sensitive food” like a foreign invader. A classic example is the adverse effect gluten sensitivity can have on intestinal perme- ability which leads to a leaky gut.


Leaky Gut


Leaky Gut Syndrome is a condition that develops when the tight junctions between the cells on the mucous lining of the small intestine become too porous, allowing unwanted toxins to enter the bloodstream. A substance call zonulin modulates those tight junctions. Gluten and its toxic component gliadin, just like bacterial overgrowth, have been shown to activate the zonulin pathway, lead- ing to increased intestinal permeability. A variety of conditions have been associated with dysfunction of intestinal tight junctions, in- cluding food sensitivities, GI tract infections, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases. There also is growing evidence that genetically modified foods may contribute to leaky gut. Zonu- lin levels can be measured in the blood. Food sensitivities and leaky gut are very closely interrelated. The


source of the problems may originate in the intestinal tract but can lead to widespread systemic symptoms, including:


• Joint pains • Fatigue


• Rashes and skin disorders • Depression • Brain fog, poor memory and confusion • Headaches or migraines • Irritability


• Impaired sleep • Nutrient deficiencies • Irritable bowel syndrome


The Importance of Variety One more important point is about variety in your diet. Our di-


gestive system is suited to a changing, seasonal diet. Unfortunately, as a society, we are losing sight of that. With modern agriculture and ease of shipping, every food is available nearly year round. If people demand fresh strawberries in the middle of winter, all they have to do is go to the nearest grocery store to get them. While you do not need to have prior exposure to have a sensitivity, breaking down, digesting and metabolizing the same foods, day after day, increases the likelihood of developing a sensitivity to them, or to a related food. You may not notice it at first, as your body has a tremendous capacity for adaptation. But eventually, with relentless exposure to the same foods, that adaptation is overwhelmed and you begin to experience symptoms. How will you know if you have food sensitivities? All it requires is a simple blood test. It is a test that everyone who wants a healthy lifestyle should have done. The ancient Greek philosopher Lucretius once said, “One man’s meat is another man’s poison”. The ALCAT test can help you determine which food is which for you.


Desmond Ebanks, MD is the founder of Alternity Healthcare, LLC in West Hartford, CT. He is a board certified internal medicine physi- cian focused on helping individuals look better, perform better and live better. He can be reached at 860-561-2294 or www.alternity- healthcare.com.


NaturalNutmeg.com 23


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