Leaky Gut Syndrome Explained: Symptoms, Testing & Natural Protocols
Feeling inflamed, fatigued, or foggy—even though your labs say you’re “normal”?
It could be leaky gut syndrome—a silent root cause behind many chronic symptoms, especially in women.
If you’re searching for leaky gut South Africa, this post will walk you through:
✅ What leaky gut actually is
✅ The telltale symptoms
✅ How we test for it
✅ Natural ways to heal it with Ask Dr Olz’s proven protocol
What Is Leaky Gut?
Also known as intestinal permeability, leaky gut means the tight junctions in your intestinal lining become loose—allowing toxins, undigested food, and microbes to enter your bloodstream.
This triggers a massive immune response, leading to:
- Chronic inflammation
- Hormonal imbalances
- Food sensitivities
- Skin issues and brain fog
Common Symptoms of Leaky Gut
Leaky gut doesn’t just show up as digestive issues. Look for:
- Bloating, gas, or IBS symptoms
- Brain fog or poor memory
- Adult acne or eczema
- Fatigue after eating
- Autoimmune flares
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Depression or mood swings
- Weight gain despite clean eating
In South Africa, it’s often misdiagnosed as “IBS,” “burnout,” or “stress.”
How We Test for Leaky Gut in South Africa
Conventional medicine rarely tests for gut permeability—but functional testing can confirm it.
At Ask Dr Olz, we use:
1. GI Map or GI360 Stool Test
Checks for gut bacteria balance, pathogens, candida, and zonulin—a key marker for leaky gut.
2. Zonulin Blood Test
Elevated levels = a leaky intestinal barrier.
3. Food Sensitivity Panels
Sudden reactions to eggs, gluten, or dairy often point to a compromised gut lining.
Ask Dr Olz Leaky Gut Protocol
We don’t just treat symptoms—we repair the root.
Our method follows the 5R Gut Healing Framework:
1. REMOVE Triggers
- Gluten, dairy, sugar, and processed oils
- Infections like candida, parasites, or SIBO
- NSAIDs and alcohol (temporarily)
2. REPLACE Digestive Support
- Digestive enzymes
- Betaine HCl (for stomach acid)
- Metagenics SpectraZyme range
3. REINOCULATE with Good Bacteria
- Probiotics (like Metagenics UltraFlora Spectrum)
- Prebiotics (like acacia fiber or PHGG)
4. REPAIR the Gut Lining
Key nutrients we recommend include:
- L-glutamine – fuels enterocytes (gut lining cells)
- Zinc carnosine – repairs and reduces inflammation
- Slippery elm + aloe vera extract
- Metagenics GI Sustain – comprehensive gut repair
5. REBALANCE Lifestyle
- Improve sleep and circadian rhythm
- Reduce chronic stress (gut-brain axis!)
- Exercise gently (avoid overtraining)
Products We Use for Leaky Gut (Available in South Africa)
These are our most recommended Metagenics formulas:
- Glutagenics – gut lining repair powder
- UltraFlora Balance – probiotic blend
- SpectraZyme Complete – for digestion
- GI Sustain – all-in-one gut healing meal supplement
- Zinc Glycinate – reduces inflammation & supports immunity
All are available through Ask Dr Olz Shop, shipping across South Africa.
💬 Final Word
If you’ve been struggling with unexplained fatigue, acne, autoimmune issues, or stubborn bloating—leaky gut might be the missing piece.
And yes—it can be reversed naturally.
We’re here to help you heal from the inside out.
👉 Book your Gut Repair Consultation with Ask Dr Olz
👉 Shop our gut-healing protocols