With over 2 billion people tipping the overweight scale worldwide, obesity is becoming one of the fastest modern day killers. “Miracle” weight loss cures are making a mark in every magazine and family medicine cabinet. But rather than downing another quick fix, we should delve to the root cause to discover what could be causing our weight gain.
When we look in the mirror we see only subcutaneous fat that lies just beneath the skin, hugging our love handles and clinging to our thighs. But much more dangerous is visceral fat found beneath the abdominal muscles, surrounding vital organs. In this post I’ll be talking about how leaky gut could be adding to this visceral fat reserve.
What is leaky gut?
This syndrome occurs when the tight junctions between your intestines malfunction. Small holes in the intestinal wall allow toxic undigested food particles and waste products to leak into the bloodstream. This causes an inflammatory reaction from the body which can lead to a variety of diseases such as Chrons Disease.
How could leaky gut be making you fat?
Although it isn’t clear whether leaky gut is the cause or consequence, studies have shown that there’s a direct link between leaky gut and weight gain. One theory states that metabolic activity of gut microbiota causes increased calorie intake from food passing through the gut.
SIBO also plays a part by causing constipation, reducing gastric acid activity and disrupting the immune system relationship between host and microbiota – all of which can increase intestinal permeability.
You’ve likely heard “you are what you eat” many times before, but have you ever stopped to consider what this really means? Diets high in fructose and fat can aggravate gut permeability. Fructose increases blood levels of LPS toxins, causing inflammation, fatty liver and hepatic insulin resistance. While tipping in at the other end of the terrible scale, fat transports harmful LPS toxins to the liver much more efficiently than carbohydrates can.
A deficiency in minerals such as magnesium, zinc, Vitamin A and D and calcium can impair intestine junction functionality, meaning the joining walls become more permeable. CRP (c-reactive protein) elevated in obesity can cause a leak in the brain barrier as well, impairing the CNS functioning and production of leptin, which in turn leads to stronger hunger signals and poorer control of food intake.
What is the solution?
Now this all sounds darker than a day of orchestrated power cuts, but there is a way to beat the bulge!
The first big step is to cut back on fructose and grains. Say no to processed sugar, and stock up on grass-fed meats, and fresh produce to help you feel fuller for longer.
Next, get moving!
Exercise is your best defence against visceral fat as it lowers inflammation levels in the body and regulates leptin (hunger hormone) levels.
Treat your gut right L-glutamine, zinc, N-acetyl cysteine, quercetin and aloe vera are all nutrients proven to prevent leaky gut syndrome. Important to find the right one for you.
Consulting a healthcare practitioner and putting yourself on an individualized probiotic plan will also do wonders for your gut related issues!
If things have been going on for some time I do suggest working with a practitioner. There may be something you’re missing. There may be an underlying cause. The whole picture needs to be addressed to be truly well.
Check out my Work with Me page to find out how I can help you discover and heal the underlying causes of weight gain.
