Dr. Menka Gupta*, MBBS, MSc, IFMCP
IFM-Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner • 25+ Years Experience
✓ Medically Reviewed •
What Is Leaky Gut?
Increased permeability of the gut lining can occur when the lining’s tight junctions become detached or are compromised. Once this happens, undigested food particles, bacteria, and toxins can enter the body through the bloodstream. This triggers the inflammatory and immune response and disrupts the function of the gut barrier. The gut barrier’s function is to allow the absorption of nutrients while preventing harmful substances from entering. Although generally not formally diagnosed, leaky gut may be associated with chronic GI issues, and various tests can help assess it.
Does Leaky Gut Cause Other Health Issues?
Leaky gut syndrome is linked to systemic inflammation and various illnesses stemming from poor gut health. In gastrointestinal diseases such as IBS, IBD, coeliac disease, and SIBO, the presence of increased permeability will worsen bloating, diarrhoea, and/or pain associated with these conditions. There are also numerous autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis, that have been found to have a correlation with leaky gut due to the presence of antibodies that originate in the gut that may trigger abnormal immune responses.
The effects of leaky gut are not limited to the digestive system. Metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes, which are caused partly by chronic low-grade Inflammation, and may also be influenced by leaky gut. Cognitive difficulties and/or a feeling of “brain fog” are common in patients diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and/or Fibromyalgia. Many skin conditions, including acne and allergic reactions, along with asthma, and/or joint pain may originate from the immune activation associated with leaky gut. While causation has not been definitively established, research suggests that improving gut permeability can reduce the aforementioned symptoms.
What Is an Intestinal Permeability Test?
The intestinal permeability test (also called the gut permeability/ leaky gut test) evaluates the health of the Intestinal wall by observing which substances pass through it. At Nutra Nourish, we offer the KBMO Leaky Gut Panel (Gut Barrier Panel), which is a blood test that detects antibodies to zonulin, occludin, LPS, and candida are present, indicating abnormalities in the gut barrier across multiple parameters.
Another method involves measuring the amount of lactulose & mannitol that patients are able to absorb. The lactulose/mannitol test (using blood or urine) can indicate intestinal leakage by detecting elevated lactulose-to-mannitol ratios.
When Should I Get an Intestinal Permeability Test?
Before seeking a higher level of care, individuals with persistent digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, or abdominal pain, should consider testing their gut. Testing is also recommended in the presence of systemic symptoms, which may include chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, food sensitivities, skin issues, or unexplained weight gain. People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), autoimmune diseases, or histories of dysbiosis are particularly likely to benefit from testing, especially when first-line therapies have failed to provide relief.
At Nutra Nourish, we recommend the KBMO test to identify a specific leaky gut profile before escalating the level of care, enabling the most targeted and effective health plan.
How Is an Intestinal Permeability Test Performed?
KBMO Gut Barrier Testing uses a simple fingerstick or blood draw to measure IgA and IgG antibodies against zonulin (a regulator of tight junctions), occludin (which stabilizes), LPS (a byproduct of bacterial toxins), and Candida. Fasting is not required for this test and the results provide guidance on ways to support gut healing.
To determine if your gut is leaky, you can take the lactulose-mannitol test. This involves a one-night fast, drinking a sugar solution, and collecting urine for 2 to 4 hours afterward for lab testing to determine how much lactulose is excreted. A high lactulose level suggests your gut is very permeable.
Why Choose Nutra Nourish?
Nutra Nourish offers the advanced KBMO Leaky Gut Panel, which distinguishes mild permeability from severe barrier breaches using comprehensive gatekeeper markers. Our clinic provides personalized interpretation, integrating results with functional medicine gut healing protocols in order to improve gut health and longevity. Unlike generic tests, the KBMO panel delivers actionable data that informs targeted gut-healing strategies, including supplements and nutritional guidelines.
Conclusion
KBMO’s Leaky Gut Test helps identify the role of intestinal permeability in various health issues, enabling targeted strategies for repair. With Nutra Nourish’s expertise, early detection and management of leaky gut through functional medicine protocols, functional nutrition, probiotics, and stress-reduction can help prevent further health complications and support overall wellness. Incorporating the KBMO Leaky Gut Test into your health plan is a proactive step toward long-term, optimal health.
KBMO’s Leaky Gut Test helps identify the role of intestinal permeability in various health issues, enabling targeted strategies for repair. With Nutra Nourish’s expertise, early detection and management of leaky gut through functional medicine protocols, functional nutrition, probiotics, and stress-reduction can prevent further health complications and support overall wellness. Incorporating the KBMO Leaky Gut Test into your health plan is a proactive step toward long-term, optimal health.
FAQs
What is an intestinal permeability (leaky gut) test?
These tests assess intestinal health and evaluate intestinal permeability by measuring antibodies or markers such as zonulin, occludin, LPS, and Candida. Panels like the KBMO test can also include stool testing for zonulin levels to identify potential gut barrier dysfunction.
What are the different types of leaky gut tests?
The main types of leaky gut tests include: Zonulin Testing (stool or blood), Antibody Tests for occludin or LPS, Stool Testing for dysbiosis, and KBMO Gut Barrier Panel (thorough quantification of these antibodies), and Lactulose-Mannitol test (urine).
What symptoms indicate I might need an intestinal permeability test?
Some symptoms may include bloating, IBS-like gastrointestinal pain, fatigue, joint problems, food allergies, skin problems, or signs of autoimmunity.
Can I take an intestinal permeability test at home?
Yes, lactulose-mannitol kits are available for you to collect your urine at home. KBMO gut barrier panel is the most convenient home blood spot test.
How do I prepare for the test? Do I need to fast?
You should fast overnight for the lactulose-mannitol test. Whereas you do not need to fast for the KBMO blood test. You must refrain from using NSAIDs or alcohol for 3-5 days before either test.
How much does the test cost, and is it covered by insurance?
The cost of KBMO is $295 SGD which is approximately ₹21,000 in India. Functional testing is rarely covered by insurance; check with your provider.
If my test shows a leaky gut, how do I fix it?
Addressing a leaky gut involves a 5R Functional Medicine framework: removing inflammatory triggers, replacing digestive enzymes, recirculating with healthy bacteria, and repairing the gut lining with targeted nutrients. By following these personalized gut healing protocols with Nutra Nourish, you can address the root cause of permeability and restore long-term digestive health.
How long does it take to heal intestinal permeability?
Improvements should occur after 2-3 months of following the appropriate protocols; complete recovery can take between 4 and 6months, with sometimes, re-testing being used to monitor progress.
References (10 sources)
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- Tajik N, Frech M, Schulz O, et al. Targeting zonulin and intestinal epithelial barrier function to prevent onset of arthritis. Nature Communications. 2020;11:1995. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-15831-7
