Is your gut 'leaking' and causing health issues!? What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Introduction | That poor health might be coming from your gut

“Feeling tired lately,” “Allergies have worsened,” “Skin is prone to breakouts.”
Such health issues may be related to a disruption in the gut's barrier function, known as Leaky Gut Syndrome.

As a pharmacist, and through my studies and practice of nutrition and herbal medicine,
I have realized that this “gut looseness” is the foundation of many chronic health issues.

What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The gut wall allows only necessary nutrients into the body,
while blocking “foreign substances” like bacteria and toxins from entering.

However, if gaps (loosening of tight junctions) form in this wall for any reason,
undigested proteins and toxins leak into the bloodstream, causing chronic inflammation and immune system disruption.

This is “Leaky Gut Syndrome.”

Do any of these symptoms apply to you?

• Recurring constipation or diarrhea

• Feeling bloated or gassy after meals

• Worsening allergies (hay fever, atopic dermatitis)

• Prone to skin breakouts, acne, or eczema

• Feeling tired easily and foggy in the morning

• Persistent feelings of anxiety or irritability

If these “vague health complaints” persist, your gut may be sending an SOS.

Why does the gut leak?

The causes of leaky gut are related to the accumulation of small, daily stresses.

• Processed foods and food additives (emulsifiers, preservatives, etc.)

• Wheat (gluten), Milk (casein)

• Abuse of antibiotics

• Lack of sleep and stress

• Excessive alcohol consumption

The intestines are very delicate organs. In our modern diet and lifestyle, their barrier function is becoming increasingly fragile.

Intestinal care starts with 'removal and repair'

First, let's be mindful of a diet that doesn't strain the gut and nutrients that help repair it.

✅ Things you might want to try removing from your diet (Removal)

• Gluten (wheat products: bread, noodles, sweets, etc.)

• Casein (dairy products: milk, yogurt, cheese)

• Processed foods and foods high in additives

※Many people feel a change just by 'trying to stop' for just 2 weeks.

✅ Nutrients useful for repair (supplements if necessary)

Nutrient Role
Glutamine Essential for regenerating the intestinal mucosa. Material to repair a leaky gut
Zinc・Vitamins A & D Involved in strengthening the mucosa and regulating immunity
Probiotics Balances the intestinal flora
Omega-3 fatty acids Suppresses intestinal inflammation (fish, flaxseed oil, etc.)

▶ From my own experience

I myself have had severe allergies since I was a child and also suffered from chronic epipharyngitis.
I tried B-spot therapy (epipharyngeal abrasive therapy), but there was a period when it was difficult to see results.

At that time, starting an 'approach from inside the body' that included intestinal care was a major turning point for me.

When I consciously reduced gluten (wheat) and casein (dairy products)my hay fever and skin problems clearly became milder.

Of course, I'm not doing it perfectly.
I still end up eating my favorite ramen twice a month (laughs)

But I feel that 'continuing within a manageable range' is much more important than 'doing everything'.

The gut is the 'second brain'—an organ connected to the mind

The intestines react sensitively not only to food, but also to stress and lack of sleep.
That is why caring for your intestines requires a 'gut-friendly lifestyle' like the following.

• Relax at least once a day (deep breathing, walking, taking a warm bath)

• Chew your food well

• Avoid staying up late and regulate your sleep rhythm

Supplement: Leaky Gut from the perspective of Kampo (traditional Japanese medicine)

In Kampo, this is viewed as 'Hikyo' (spleen deficiency), a state where the gastrointestinal strength is weakened.
The prescriptions I often use are as follows:

• Hochuekkito: For those who tire easily and have a weak gastrointestinal constitution

• Hangeshashinto: For those accompanied by diarrhea or anxiety

• Kamikihito: For anemia, insomnia types, etc., matching the specific pattern

Summary: Regulating the intestines means regulating the body and mind

If left untreated, Leaky Gut carries the risk of leading to allergies, chronic fatigue, and autoimmune issues.
But conversely, by regulating your intestines, physical ailments throughout the body will ease.

I have experienced this firsthand.
If you also feel that 'something about your physical condition is not quite right,'
please try listening to the voice of your gut.