What Causes A Leaky Gut?

Leaky gut, also known as intestinal permeability, is still somewhat of a medical mystery but there is some information based on scientific research and studies and there are always more studies being done to better understand the condition, its symptoms, and its causes. There is debate regarding the condition itself and whether it even classifies as a condition or anything for that matter. As more research is done more information is published regarding the facts on leaky gut and here are some of the causes of the condition.


  • Certain Medical Conditions
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Celiac Disease
  • HIV/Aids
  • Sepsis
  • Type 1 Diabetes
  • Medical Treatments: Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are two medical treatments that can cause a leaky gut.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Regular consumption of alcohol can irritate the intestinal lining and damage the protective seals between the cells which allows toxic substances to pass into places they shouldn’t. In some cases any alcohol consumption can lead to the damage especially when there is a pre-existing medical condition.
  • Painkillers: NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a huge culprit causing leaky gut. NSAIDs are found in over the counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, and Aleve.

  • Practitioners of Complementary and Alternative Medicine believe there is a much wider range of factors that can lead to or cause leaky gut syndrome. 


    • Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth or SIBO
    • Poor Diet
    • Overuse of Pharmaceutical Antibiotics
    • Food Allergies
    • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
    • Eczema
    • Autism
    • Lupus
    • Rheumatoid Arthritis
    • MS or Multiple Sclerosis
    • Asthma

    Undigested food particles, germs, bacteria, and toxins can pass through the damaged intestinal wall lining. When this happens it triggers the immune system causing constant inflammation along with other problems. Some of the causes on the list above can also be the result with the cause being leaky gut. It is almost like a double-edged sword especially if it isn’t taken care of. Our gut health plays a bigger role in our general health and well-being. If you have a leaky gut, talk to your doctor or practitioner about finding the root of the problem and a treatment plan that is right for you. Leaky gut antibiotics, probiotics, and supplements can all help you heal your leaky gut it’s a matter of finding the right stuff for you because everyone’s situation is going to be unique to them and their body.