Leaky Gut and the Ingredients That Help Treat It: A Review

Abstract

The human body is in daily contact with potentially toxic and infectious substances in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The GIT has the most significant load of antigens. The GIT can protect the intestinal integrity by allowing the passage of beneficial agents and blocking the path of harmful substances. Under normal conditions, a healthy intestinal barrier prevents toxic elements from entering the blood stream. However, factors such as stress, an unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol, antibiotics, and drug consumption can compromise the composition of the intestinal microbiota and the homeostasis of the intestinal barrier function of the intestine, leading to increased intestinal permeability. Intestinal hyperpermeability can allow the entry of harmful agents through the junctions of the intestinal epithelium, which pass into the bloodstream and affect various organs and systems. Thus, leaky gut syndrome and intestinal barrier dysfunction are associated with intestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as extra-intestinal diseases, including heart diseases, obesity, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and celiac disease. Given the relationship between intestinal permeability and numerous conditions, it is convenient to seek an excellent strategy to avoid or reduce the increase in intestinal permeability. The impact of dietary nutrients on barrier function can be crucial for designing new strategies for patients with the pathogenesis of leaky gut-related diseases associated with epithelial barrier dysfunctions. In this review article, the role of functional ingredients is suggested as mediators of leaky gut-related disorders.

Protective Effect of Limosilactobacillus fermentum ME-3 against the Increase in Paracellular Permeability Induced by Chemotherapy or Inflammatory Conditions in Caco-2 Cell Models

“…Regarding the mechanistic aspects of the protective effects of ME-3 on the intestinal barrier, we did not deepen understanding of these, nor have we have available relevant experimental data, being able to only make some hypotheses based on data reported in the literature. In our view, the primary mechanism that L. fermentum ME-3 uses to maintain intestinal integrity might be the upregulated expression and distribution of proteins belonging to the apical junctional complex, as already reported for other probiotics [ 46 ]. The reinforcement of the mucosal barrier can halt the damage caused by Irinotecan and LPS-induced inflammation.…”

Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the Risk of Mouth Ulcers: Insights from a Mendelian Randomization Study

“…This chronic in ammation can lead to disturbances in intestinal homeostasis and intestinal barrier integrity. In addition, a compromised intestinal barrier can lead to the entry of bacteria and microbial products into the bloodstream, a phenomenon known as "leaky gut" (19). The effects of this systemic immune response may extend well beyond the gut (20).…”

Recent progresses in gut microbiome mediates obstructive sleep apnea‐induced cardiovascular diseases

“…However, compromised intestinal integrity can facilitate the entry of harmful substances, such as pathogens, pro-inflammatory substances, and antigens, leading to the development of diseases or inflammation. 47 One such substance is LPS, also known as endotoxin, is a major cell wall component of Gram-negative bacteria. It is released during infection or the lysis of Gram-negative bacteria.…”

“…Normally, the intestinal barrier prevents the transmission of harmful agents to the internal environment. However, compromised intestinal integrity can facilitate the entry of harmful substances, such as pathogens, pro‐inflammatory substances, and antigens, leading to the development of diseases or inflammation 47 . One such substance is LPS, also known as endotoxin, is a major cell wall component of Gram‐negative bacteria.…”