The Truth About “Leaky Gut”

Why this dubious diagnosis and others like it are dangerous for your relationship with food

This post is from my previous newsletter, Food Psych Weekly.

This week’s question is from a reader named Laura, who writes:

Hi Christy, I’m a little over 2 years in on my work with intuitive eating/finally leaving the diet culture way of life. It’s been a real struggle at times, but I feel like I’ve finally crested the hardest bits and feeling good about where I’m at with my relationship with food. Cut to: I was recently diagnosed with a raging case of “leaky gut” (I have IBS/digestive issues) and, even with me explaining my disordered eating, she has suggested some food restriction. Ugh. I know my stress has been very high and she wants me to reduce stress and add some supplements, but I’m having a lot of stress around the food restricting!! Any experience or advice with intuitive eating for leaky gut? Thank you.