Leaky Gut Syndrome: The Hidden Root of Chronic Symptoms

What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky Gut Syndrome, also known as intestinal permeability, is a condition where the lining of your small intestine becomes damaged, allowing toxins, undigested food particles, and harmful microbes to “leak” into your bloodstream.

Normally, your gut lining acts as a secure barrier. But when it’s compromised, the immune system goes into overdrive, triggering chronic inflammation. Over time, this can contribute to autoimmune conditions, hormone imbalances, and systemic health issues.

At Alessi Functional Health in Tampa, we see leaky gut as one of the most common — and overlooked — root causes of chronic disease.

What Symptoms Might Be Present?

Leaky gut can present differently in every person, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Digestive problems: bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, or IBS-like symptoms

• Food sensitivities: sudden reactions to foods you used to tolerate

• Skin issues: acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes

• Brain fog and fatigue: low energy, poor focus, memory problems

• Joint pain or inflammation: aches and stiffness without clear injury

• Autoimmune disorders: conditions like Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus

• Mood disorders: anxiety, depression, or mood swings

If you’re experiencing several of these at once, your gut may be the hidden culprit.

How Do You Test for It with Functional Medicine?

Conventional medicine doesn’t typically recognize or test for leaky gut directly. That’s where functional medicine takes the lead.

At Alessi Functional Health, we use advanced lab testing to assess:

• Intestinal permeability markers

• Gut microbiome balance (good vs. bad bacteria)

• Inflammation and immune activity

• Food sensitivities and nutrient deficiencies

We don’t just guess — we test, so we can target the root cause.

How to Fix Leaky Gut (The 5 R’s)

Healing leaky gut requires a comprehensive, step-by-step approach. In functional medicine, we use the 5 R’s Protocol:

1. Remove – Get rid of irritants like processed foods, sugar, and gut infections.

2. Replace – Add back digestive enzymes and stomach acid to support proper digestion.

3. Reinoculate – Rebuild healthy gut bacteria with probiotics and prebiotics.

4. Repair – Use nutrients like glutamine, zinc, and herbal compounds to heal the gut lining.

5. Rebalance – Focus on lifestyle changes like stress management, sleep, and movement.

At Alessi Functional Health, we simplify this with our Repair & Clear Program — a guided 6-week protocol designed to reset gut health, reduce inflammation, and restore optimal function.

Patients who commit to this program often see dramatic improvements in digestion, energy, skin, mood, and long-term resilience.

Take Back Control of Your Gut Health

Leaky gut doesn’t just cause stomach issues — it’s linked to fatigue, inflammation, autoimmune conditions, and more. The good news? With the right testing and a root-cause protocol, you can heal your gut and restore your health.

At Alessi Functional Health, our TotalCare membership gives you access to advanced testing, personalized care, and proven gut-healing programs like Repair & Clear.

Book your Intro Appointment today for just $49 and take the first step toward real answers and lasting relief.