Weight loss is challenging under optimal circumstances, but compromised gut health makes it much harder. According to scientific research, leaky gut syndrome inhibits the absorption of nutrients while letting inflammation-causing toxins and allergens in. Here, we’ll explore the connections between leaky gut and sudden weight gain.
Leaky Gut Symptoms
The symptoms of leaky gut syndrome are hard to detect because they are like those of other conditions. Signs may include:
- Nutrient deficiencies.
- Constipation.
- Diarrhea.
- An inability to focus.
- Unexplained joint pain.
- Inflammation
- Tiredness.
- Depression and anxiety.
Leaky gut also aggravates autoimmune conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease. In the sections below, we’ll find the answer to the question “does leaky gut cause weight gain?”
How Leaky Gut Makes Weight Loss More Difficult
Leaky gut, which is also known as intestinal permeability, can derail the most focused weight loss efforts. The most common symptoms of the condition include food sensitivities, fatigue, bloating, and skin rashes. Essentially, it puts the immune system into overdrive, causing the body to hold onto stored fat. As the gut heals, weight loss begins again.
What Causes It?
While intestinal permeability isn’t fully understood, it’s thought that alcohol consumption, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and the presence of autoimmune disorders may play a role. The foods we eat—especially if they’re rich in refined carbs and sugar and low in fiber—can also make the condition worse.
Other Risks
Leaky gut syndrome may increase the risk of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease, pancreatitis, and cirrhosis of the liver. More research is needed to establish a firm connection between intestinal permeability and other health conditions.
Overcoming Leaky Gut Syndrome
If your digestive condition is due to poor diet, there are several ways to reduce its severity and lose weight.
- Decrease stress: Activities like meditation, breathwork, and nature walks will reduce stress and allow the body to heal.
- Eat more fiber: Enjoying a diet rich in seeds, nuts, beans, vegetables, and fruits will feed beneficial digestive bacteria.
- Reduce intake of processed foods: Sugary, fatty foods have few nutrients and may contribute to inflammation.
- Eat fermented foods: Kombucha, sauerkraut, and other foods may support a healthy bacterial balance in the gut.
- Get more omega-3s: Found in oily fish, chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, ginger, and turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation.
- Enjoy bone broth. It’s nutrient-dense and supports gut health.
- Increase vitamin D intake: Taking vitamin D supplements and getting more sunlight improves intestinal lining health.
Following these tips will make you feel more energetic and less bloated. With improved digestion, clearer skin, and weight loss, you’ll feel better and look better, too.
Does the FODMAP Diet Help With Weight Loss?
Low-FODMAP diets eliminate sugars and starches, which cause intestinal cramping, bloating, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals. You’ll enjoy better gut health and potentially lose weight by removing processed carbohydrates from your diet.
Heal Your Gut, Drop the Weight
While some healthcare professionals recognize leaky gut as a clinical observation rather than a condition, the fact remains that intestinal permeability can lead to weight gain. By following the tips in our guide, reducing your intake of processed carbohydrates, and taking the right dietary supplements, you can improve gut health and stay at a healthy weight.
