The 5 Best Foods for Leaky Gut
While it goes without saying that food plays a huge role in our lives, you might not know that poor eating choices can cause gut irritation. Leaky gut syndrome, or intestinal hyperpermeability, can happen when your gut becomes inflamed by dietary, metabolic, or environmental factors. Instead of nutrients passing from the intestines to the bloodstream, partially digested food or toxins can escape through perforations. Could it be that eating the right foods may help reduce the severity of leaky gut?
5 Best Foods for Leaky Gut
You’re probably already thinking about how diet can help in this situation, and you’re right in doing your research. Here are five of the best foods to eat for a leaky gut.
1. Fermented Foods
Fermented foods contain bacterial cultures which can go a long way in restoring gut health.[1] These cultures, also called probiotics, contain the good bacteria your gut needs to keep bad bacteria in check. There are many options out there, but some popular ones are sauerkraut and kimchi. Keep in mind, though, some fermented foods can contain high levels of sodium. This may not be much of a concern for otherwise healthy individuals.
2. Coconut
Coconut products are especially good for a leaky gut because they contain medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs). These are more easily digested than other fats.[2] In addition to being great for digestion, coconut kefir — a fermented yogurt-like food — also contains probiotics.
3. Non-Starchy Vegetables
Full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, non-starchy vegetables are a great choice for easing irritation and are easier to digest than starchy ones. Making sure you eat a variety of them — especially dark green leafy vegetables — every day can help make sure your gut stays in tip-top shape.
4. Flaxseed Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are great at reducing gut irritation, and could even alleviate symptoms on inflammatory bowel disease.[3] Flaxseed oil is one of the most concentrated sources of omega-3s! Some other excellent plant-based sources include walnuts and chia seeds.
5. Low-Glycemic Fruits
High in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, fruit is a great choice for leaky gut, but you want to make sure you are eating low-glycemic fruits.[4] Fruits like berries are better options since sugar can irritate the gut.
Leaky Gut | Natural Remedies to Heal the Gut
Length: 6 minutes
A Healthy Diet Helps Leaky Gut
Changing your diet for the better can play a huge role in successfully managing leaky gut syndrome. You may also want to check into probiotics as adding those to your day can be a huge benefit, not only to your digestive system but your overall health in general.
References (4)
- Selhub, E. et al. Fermented foods, microbiota, and mental health: ancient practice meets nutritional psychiatry. Journal of Physiological Anthropology. 33 (2).
- Martena, B. et al. Medium-chain triglycerides. International Dairy Journal. 16 (11).
- Simopoulos, A. P. Omega-3 fatty acids in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 21 (6).
- Jenkins, D. et al. Glycemic index: overview of implications in health and disease. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 76 (1).
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
