more leaky gut info

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" What Is Leaky Gut? "

" Leaky gut " or " Leaky gut syndrome " is a serious problem that can develop as a

result of Dysbiosis. This means that there is an abnormal or increased

permeability of the intestinal lining. A healthy intestinal lining allows only

the nutrients from properly digested fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to pass

through for transport to the cells. Simultaneously, the lining acts as a barrier

to keep out larger particles, including disease causing bacteria, toxic

molecules, undigested food particles, and other foreign substances.

When irritated or inflamed, the lining becomes damaged. The damage results in

increased permeability. It allows harmful substances to pass directly through

the weakened cell membranes. With time, this becomes leaky gut syndrome, a

condition causing a large number of symptoms and illnesses. As our knowledge

about the connection between digestive function and the immune system expands,

the list of health conditions associated with leaky gut grows. Depending on

individual susceptibilities, a wide variety of health problems may develop.

Common conditions associated with leaky gut include:

* Acne and other skin problems

* Aging

* Childhood hyperactivity

* Chronic bad breath

* Chronic vaginal infections

* Chronic diarrhea

* Chronic bladder infections

* Constipation

* High cholesterol levels

* Crohn's Disease

* Irritable Bowel Syndrome

* Breast enlargement in men

* Food allergies

* Menstrual complaints

* Prostate trouble

* P.M.S.

* Osteoporosis

* Hormonal problems

* Liver dysfunction

* Severe bruising

* Chronic anemia

* Candida infections

* Vitamin B deficiency

Sources:

* Brudnak, Mark. (2003). The Probiotic Solution. Dragon Door Publications,

St. , MN

* Khalsa, S.D. (1996 and 2005). Nutrition News, Probiotics-For Your Life

* Lipski, E. (2000). Digestive Wellness. Keats Publishing, Los Angeles

Chronic constipation caused by food allergy

Several studies have demonstrated that allergy to foods (particularly cow's

milk) is a common cause of chronic constipation in children. This is the first

study to show that food allergy is a cause of chronic constipation in some

adults. The study also found that patients who responded to an elimination diet

had certain characteristics that differed from those of patients who do not

respond.

According to Carroccio et al, 4 women (mean age, 40.2 years) with chronic

constipation who had failed to respond to fiber supplements and laxatives,

consumed an oligoantigenic diet followed by double-blind, placebo-controlled

food challenges. In all cases, constipation resolved within ten days of starting

the diet. All four patients experienced a return of constipation after ingestion

of wheat, cow's milk, and egg; other positive food challenges included tomato,

beef, soy, and cocoa (three cases each); oranges and goat's milk (two cases

each); and fish, legumes, peas, cauliflower, and beans (one case each).

All patients had experienced chronic anal itching, which resolved in each case

on the elimination diet. During a mean follow-up period of 3 years (range, 2-4

years), bowel movements remained normal, and anal itching did not recur, as long

as the patients avoided foods to which they were sensitive.

In comparison with the non-responders, the responders had a longer duration of

illness (p < 0.03), lower body mass index (p < 0.03), higher frequency of

self-reported food intolerance (p < 0.01), higher frequency of nocturnal

abdominal pain and anal itching (p < 0.01).

Carroccio A, et al. Multiple food hypersensitivity as a cause of refractory

chronic constipation in adults. Scand J Gastroenterol. 2006;41:498-504.

Cooking Oils 101

It's not easy to keep straight the various types of oils and fats that are on

the market. Here are some basic definitions that may help.

Mono-saturated Fatty Acids: According to research, mono-unsaturated fats tend to

lower LDL (bad)-cholesterol levels and, thus, can promote cardiovascular health.

Major sources of such oils are plants and sea foods. Olive, canola, avocado and

sunflower oil are high in mono-unsaturated fatty acids.

Poly-unsaturated Fatty Acids: Poly-unsaturated fats, which are found in plants

and sea foods, tend to lower LDL (bad)-cholesterol in the blood levels,

according to research studies. Essential fatty acids (such as omega-3 and

omega-6 fatty acids) are poly-unsaturated fats that are said to help protect

against heart attack and stroke. Safflower, flaxseed and corn oil are high in

poly-unsaturated fatty acids.

Saturated Fatty Acids: Saturated fats can come from two main sources: animals

(such as lard) and plants (such as coconut and palm oils). Animal-derived,

long-chain saturated fats tend to raise LDL-cholesterol blood levels, which can

lead to poor heart health. Plant-based, short- and medium-chain saturated fats,

however, are used in the body as energy and are not stored as fat, according to

research.

Trans-Fatty Acids: Trans-fatty acids are hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated

through a process that extends the shelf life of baked goods and other snack

foods made with these oils. As a result, trans fats are made more solid, more

stable, and, thus, are difficult for the body to break down.

The Omegas: Omega-3 and -6 are essential fatty acids that are needed in our

diets, but are not produced by our bodies. Omega-9 is needed for good heath and

is produced in the body. All cells in our body need omega-3 fatty acids to

survive. Sources include flaxseed and fish. Omega-6 fatty acids are more readily

available and are found in vegetable oils such as walnut oil, soy, and corn.

Omega-9 fatty acids are mono-saturated fats that are produced in the body and

are available in olive, canola, sunflower and almond oils.

E. Mayfield, A Consumer's Guide to Fats (U.S. Food and Drug Administration,

Rockville, MD, 1999)

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