What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky Gut Syndrome is the name given to a very common health disorder in which the intestinal lining is more permeable than normal. The abnormally large spaces present between the cells of the gut wall allow the entry of toxic material into the bloodstream that would, in healthier circumstances, be repelled and eliminated. The gut becomes “leaky” in the sense that bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and their toxins, undigested foods such as proteins, nerve and connective tissue, fat and waste normally not absorbed into the bloodstream in the healthy state, pass through a damaged, hyper-permeable, porous or “leaky” gut. Colostrum is the only substance that can close the holes in the intestinal lining. When mammals are born, they have a “leaky gut” by design. The gut has not matured at birth, even if fullterm, and complete development doesn’t occur until the growth factors and other components in colostrum are ingested. Epithelial growth factor (EGF) is particularly important in closing the holes in the gastrointestinal lining. However, before the holes are closed, larger proteins, such as the immunolglobulins, are able to easily enter the body, thereby achieving passive immunity from the mother.