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Gastrointestinal Repair Nutrients

Description

Newsweek focused on an article called, “Gut Reactions," in which they reported that tiny leaks in the lining of the small intestine may play a role in diseases as diverse as asthma and arthritis (Newsweek, November 17, 1997, p. 95-99). This is helping create a new awareness of one of the oldest immune weapons we have - our own gut lining! The lining of our intestine is meant not only to absorb food, but to act as a barrier to keep out invading pathogens. Newsweek calls it, “Intestinal Fortitude," where the mucosal layer of a healthy gut filters out microorganisms and undigested proteins. When this lining gets battered, by things like aspirin, bacteria, or even the pesticides sprayed on our food, the lining loses its integrity. This is when the door is open to let in the bacteria, the viruses, the parasites - (even undigested food molecules!) which can activate the immune system (and also the autoimmune system). We refer to this loss of integrity as dysbiosis or “the leaky gut syndrome."

In order to maintain the integrity of the intestinal lining so that it can absorb what it needs to (giving us the nutrients we need for optimal health) and still keep out harmful pathogens, several nutrients are necessary. When these nutrients are provided, it is possible to fortify the intestinal barrier to be immune to invaders. The most important nutrient needed, by far, is glutamine.

Clinical Applications/Research

No disease needs to be present to warrant protecting the intestinal lining; keeping this “immune barrier” healthy helps to keep us strong and disease-resistant. This is especially indicated for conditions where intestinal permeability is suspected. Healing the gut lining is applicable in: asthma, arthritis, food allergies, ulcers, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, autoimmune diseases, alcoholism, chronic fatigue, joint pain, migraines, diarrhea, parasitic infections, dysbiosis, candidiasis, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and T-cell lymphomas. People who smoke, drink, take aspirin/ibuprofen/antibiotics/drugs, get exposed to environmental toxins, have poor digestion, sluggish liver detoxification, or stored toxins, or who have bacterial/microbial infections or inflammation are all at high risk for intestinal permeability.

Nutrient Applications

Glutamine is the main fuel that the intestinal cells need for maintenance and repair (they slough off every three days). Glutamine reinforces the immune system, and there is considerable evidence that glutamine can enhance the barrier function of the gut against viral, bacterial, and food antigen invaders (Hall JC et al. Br J Surg 1996 Mar;83(3):305-312). Glutamine has been proven to stimulate intestinal cell growth while reducing cell injury and infection. It also stimulates mucosal cells, which are highly protective against the damage seen in ulcers.

NAG (N-acetyl glucosamine) is derived from marine exoskeletons or can be synthetically produced. NAG, aside from being able to heal the extracellular tissue surrounding intestinal epithelial cells, has the unique ability to decrease the binding of some lectins to the intestinal lining. Lectins are antinutrients found in many grains and legumes; in genetically susceptible people, they can cause an immune (and autoimmune) response. Recent research shows that in susceptible people, food proteins can have "molecular mimicry" with self-proteins in the body, and lectins allow them to enter through the lining. This means that the wheat protein causes antibodies to be formed which then attack collagen tissues because they have similar protein structures. Recent research also shows that NAG is one of the few nutrients with the power to bind to some of these lectins and prevent their damage to the intestinal lining.

Larch arabinogalactan is produced from the bark of the Larch tree and is thought to have immune-enhancing effects (increases natural killer cell activity). Larch arabinogalactan has been shown to increase the good bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, increase the production of short-chain fatty acids and decrease ammonia production and absorption. These characteristics make larch an excellent gastrointestinal support nutrient. Larch may also be helpful in treating liver disease.

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid, a water-soluble plant pigment that provides the color and many health benefits to plants and fruits. Quercetin has well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin inhibits histamine release and is beneficial as an anti-allergic nutrient. Quercetin has also been shown to compete with estradiole for type II estrogen binding sites (Scambia, G. et al, Brit J Cancer 62(6): 942-6, Dec. 1990).

Gamma oryzanol is a natural compound found in rice oil. Gamma oryzanol has been studied for its effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa. Research has shown that gamma oryzanol can be helpful for gastritis sufferers. 300 mg daily of gamma oryzanol has shown improvement in gastritis patients in over 62% of the patients (Shinyaku To Rinsho 1977;26 [in Japanese]).

DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) increases the integrity of the mucusal cells - it increases the life span of the intestinal cells, improves the quality of protective substances, and improves the blood supply of nutrients (Glick L. Lancet ii:817, 1982). Additionally, it has a high healing rate and significantly low relapse rate for ulcers (Kassir ZA Irish Med J 78:153-56, 1985).

Lactobacillus sporogenes are friendly bacteria which offset populations of bad bacteria and boost the immune system. Overpopulation of bad bacteria can beat away at the intestinal lining. Friendly bacteria especially counteract candida, which can spread long mycelial arms right through the intestinal lining and perforate it, permitting wide-open entry to microorganisms and toxins. Candida can also release over 60 known candidal toxins which activate the immune system, and which can further increase the “leakiness” of the gut. The advantage of lactobacillus sporogenes is that it does not need refrigeration.

Ginkgo biloba is an antioxidant which protects the gastrointestinal lining from free radical damage. Ginkgo biloba also increases circulation in the smaller vessels and capillaries, which increases nutrient delivery and tissue healing.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Use NAG with caution in people with shellfish allergies. Ginkgo biloba should be used with caution in people taking anticoagulants.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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