Leaky Gut Syndrome

What Is It?

What is leaky gut syndrome? This condition is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the lining of the digestive tract.

It might surprise you to know that this digestive problem is thought
by some to be a contributing factor to autism and related pervasive developmental disorders. The digestive tract lining becomes irritated and permeable. As a result, undigested food particles (particularly proteins) and toxins wind up seeping into the blood stream.

This leakiness can lead to disturbances in neurological brain function. These disturbances are thought to be one of the causes of autism and conditions like Asperger syndrome.

Part of the problems inherent in this syndrome is that the body is naturally designed to fight off foreign entities. The food particles and toxins cause the body to put the immune system into overdrive, which is suspect for causing autoimmune disorders. Treatment is available for
relief from this problem, and your diet is a good place to begin.

What are signs of leaky gut syndrome?

Specific symptoms indicate that there might be a problem with
a permeable intestinal tract. They include:

• discomfort in the abdominal area
• bloating and constipation
• diarrhea and gas
• indigestion and heartburn
• shortness of breath
• asthma
• poor immunity
• aggressive behavior and mood swings
• disorientation and memory problems
• anxiety, confusion, and nervousness

People who have this disorder tend to have recurrent infections, skin rashes, and chronic pain. Some experience bed-wetting and fatigue. Supplements for leaky gut have been popular with individuals affected by this disorder.

What causes this gastrointestinal condition?

Numerous factors are thought to contribute to this disorder, including diet. People in the autism community, however, are
drawn to heavy metal toxicity as a cause for leakiness in the digestive tract.

The heavy metals include:

• arsenic
• cadmium
• lead
• aluminum
• mercury

Many people experience exposure to lead and mercury, which used to
be an ingredient in thimerosal, a preservative used in MMR vaccines.

How are leaky gut and autism connected?

Autism and related pervasive developmental disorders are neurological conditions that are wrapped in mystery. Some well-studied individuals postulate that the MMR vaccines that contain mercury may cause the gastrointestinal condition hyper-permeable intestine. This condition is believed to have an effect on brain functioning.

Part of answering the questions about leaky gut syndrome revolves around finding out how the condition affects the brain. Research is a continuing process, which we hope will provide more answers in the near future.

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