Leaky Gut of the Large Intestine © 2013 Victoria Bowmann, PhD Most people equate leaky gut to the small intestine and certainly, it is perhaps the largest area to sustain this damage. Perhaps the damage to the colonic epithelial cells is overlooked in regards to Leaky Gut. The inside of the colon walls are composed of colonic epithelial cells and the “edges” of each cell must have a level of integrity in order for wastes to not be reabsorbed into the circulation, particularly the portal vein which goes directly to the liver. These tight junctions (TJ) of the cells should have greater integrity than even the blood brain barrier. In fact, the cell structure is specialized for cell-to-cell adhesion. This structure forms a strong, sturdy structure, which prevents large molecules from passing through. The mucus layer, called mucin, of the digestive tract is designed to keep out foreign substances. Any disruption of the Tight Junction can cause the following problems. 1.) Contributes to systemic inflammatory response such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory bowel diseases. 2.) Involves a relationship between the impaired TJ and allergies, asthma and autism. 3.) Provokes the immune system to produce antibodies to fight off large molecules, which are perceived as antigens. 4.) Promotes bacterial translocation from a weakened mucus layer. Where there is Leaky Gut in any part of the digestive tract, there is impairment to the TJ. Microbes and toxins permeate through the colonic epithelial cells. To put this more simply, large spaces develop between the cells of the gut wall allowing bacteria, toxins and food to leak into the bloodstream. The most rapid and effective treatment of colonic epithelial cell damage is through the rectal introduction of probiotics, called Reflorastation. This method will bypass stomach low pH and the digestive enzymes. When sufficient quantities of various probiotics are present in the large intestine, the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into acetate and then into butyrate provide nutrients for the rebuilding of the intestinal lining. One needs a comprehensive program to address the different aspects of Leaky Gut. By reducing the exposure to damage and supporting the nutrients for not only rebuilding the villi of the small intestine but also to address the colonic epithelial cells of the large intestine, then Leaky Gut can be managed and often resolved. About Victoria Bowmann, Ph.D Dr. Victoria Bowmann received her PhD in homeopathy and natural medicine from Westbrook University as well as a doctorate in homeopathic medicine from the British Institute of Homeopathy. She is also a licensed massage and certified colon therapist in the state of Arizona. Bowmann is a regular contributor to several national publications, has been interviewed on television and radio, and has delivered numerous presentations internationally. She has personally trained physicians and colon hydrotherapist and wrote a widely used training manual on GI Health and reflorastation. Her private practice is located in Phoenix, Ariz., and Bowmann lives by the motto, "Happiness is a choice." Watch this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rlvr2joWFBU
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