Inside our abdomen, we have an extensive intestinal lining covering more than 4,000 square feet of surface area. Physiologically, it forms a tight barrier controlling what gets absorbed into the bloodstream. An unhealthy gut lining may have large cracks or holes, allowing partially digested food, toxins, and pathogens to penetrate the tissues beneath it. This may trigger a cascade of inflammation and changes in the gut flora (normal bacteria) that could lead to problems within the digestive tract and beyond. Multiple research and studies show that modifications in the intestinal bacteria and inflammation may play a role in developing several common chronic diseases.
We all have some degree of leaky gut, as this barrier is not entirely impenetrable (and isn’t supposed to be!). Many may have a genetic predisposition, thus being more sensitive to changes in the digestive system, but there is more to it than genetics. Our hectic and stressful lifestyle may actually be the primary driver of gut inflammation. Our diet, if it is low in fibre and high in sugar and saturated fats, may initiate this process. Heavy alcohol use and stress also seem to disrupt this balance.
Increased intestinal permeability plays a role in certain gastrointestinal conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Celiac disease & Crohn’s disease.
However, there are pieces of evidence to suggest that a leaky gut may cause problems elsewhere in the body. Some studies show that leaky gut may be associated with other autoimmune diseases (Lupus, Type 1 diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis), Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, arthritis, allergies, asthma, acne, obesity, and even mental illness.
The following factors may lead to a leaky gut –
A dysbiotic microbiome may not efficiently perform functions vital to the regulation of the hair cycle, such as supplying nutrients, synthesizing specific vitamins, and regulating aspects of the immune system. Alterations to the microbiome have the potential for permanence, compromising function, and aiding the development of myriad health problems, including potential hair loss.
IBD has various Extra Intestinal Manifestations (EIM), hair loss being one of the most common ones. Through case reports and series, hair loss has been associated with concomitant autoimmune diseases (alopecia areata, telogen effluvium) and medications commonly used in IBD.
The presence of similar inflammatory mediators can be one of the reasons why Alopecia Areata is commonly associated with IBD.
Also, IBD can lead to several nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin B12 and iron, which have been associated with hair loss. No large study exists to evaluate the associations between medications and alopecia among patients with IBD.
Here are a few strategies to support a healthy gut:
These are the ways you can correct hair loss due to leaky gut –
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