When the gut (gastrointestinal tract) becomes damaged and inflamed, the walls develop minuscule permeations or holes which allow bacteria, parasites, and incompletely digested food particles to "leak" into the bloodstream. When too many of these particles quickly enter the bloodstream, bypassing the normal order of absorption, the body can become overburdened with foreign material that it will judge as being a threat. When these "invaders" are seen entering the intestinal walls and circulating throughout the body, the body's immune system goes on the offensive, causing further inflammation in the gut wall as well as in other areas of the body. This systemic release of aggressive immune factors may cause a variety of allergic and inflammatory symptoms, such as: Colitis, Diarrhea, Constipation, Indigestion, Gas, Crohns, and IBS. While not scientifically proven, many healthcare professionals theorize that there may also be a link between this self-perpetuating condition and the development of certain autoimmune diseases. Other symptoms include fatigue, headache, and body aches.

Having a compromised intestinal track means that vitamins and nutrients are poorly absorbed from your food contributing to malnutrition. You MUST target intestinal health first and foremost in any health/nutrition program.

So what causes this inflammation to occur in the first place? This can be caused by many factors, including certain foods (specific proteins found in many types of grains, known as gluteins, may cause severe problems for people with Celiac disease). Other people may be sensitive or intolerant to the proteins specific to one type of grain only, such as wheat or soy. Quinoa, rice and millet are grains which are generally well tolerated by most people with glutein allergies or intolerances. Other common causes include stress, medications, and gastrointestinal problems such as dysbiosis and gastroduodenal reflux. It is important to speak to a healthcare provider if you suspect that this may be a problem for you, in order to properly address the cause, and to make sure that your nutritional needs are being met if you choose to eliminate foods from your diet.