Recent research reveals that gut permeability, often called "leaky gut," is crucial in chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs). Here’s what you need to know:
Zonulin's Impact: Zonulin, a protein regulating gut permeability, is linked to various CIDs. Elevated zonulin levels may contribute to the development and progression of these diseases.
Systemic Inflammation: Increased gut permeability can raise levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, driving systemic inflammation.
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like celiac disease are directly influenced by gut permeability changes, with gluten ingestion triggering immune responses in sensitive individuals.
Metabolic and Aging Effects: Heightened gut permeability is associated with metabolic disorders and aging, highlighting its broader impact on health.
The Hygiene Hypothesis: Improved hygiene and reduced exposure to microorganisms might be linked to the rise in CIDs in industrialized nations:
Microbiota Diversity: Lower microbial diversity due to increased cleanliness can disrupt gut microbiota balance, affecting immune function.
Environmental Shifts: Modern lifestyles and urbanization have altered our exposure to microbes, potentially influencing the rise in CIDs.
Inflammatory Disease Surge: A rise in CIDs parallels lower rates of infectious diseases, suggesting a connection to hygiene practices.
These findings underscore the intricate relationship between gut health, hygiene, and chronic inflammation.
Fasano A. All disease begins in the (leaky) gut: role of zonulin-mediated gut permeability in the pathogenesis of some chronic inflammatory diseases. F1000Research. 2020;9.
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