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Gut Permeability

Meaning

Gut permeability, often clinically referred to as “leaky gut,” describes the degree to which the intestinal barrier allows substances to pass from the gut lumen into the underlying bloodstream and tissues. While a certain degree of permeability is necessary for the absorption of nutrients, abnormally increased gut permeability allows larger, potentially immunogenic molecules and bacterial products to cross the barrier. This disruption is a key factor implicated in systemic inflammation, autoimmune processes, and various endocrine dysregulations.