Gut Lining - How does it Influence your Health?

Society is increasingly talking about gut health in relation to immunity, mental health and digestive health.  There is also a greater understanding that gut dysbiosis (imbalance) is the genesis, or plays its part in, the inset of many chronic inflammatory diseases.

Our bodies digestive system holds about 10 trillion microbes which play an essential role in gut balance - we have written about that previously (read here and here).

In this blog, we want to talk more specifically about the gut lining, also known as the gastrointestinal lining and its importance in our health.

The gut lining refers to the innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a specialised barrier that separates the contents of the digestive system from the surrounding tissues in the body. The gut lining plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption, immune function, and protection against harmful substances.

The gut lining is composed of different types of cells and tissues with specific functions:

1. Epithelial Cells: These cells form a single layer that lines the interior surface of the gastrointestinal tract. They are responsible for nutrient absorption and act as a protective barrier against harmful substances, toxins, and pathogens. They also produce mucin, which is a key component of the mucus that helps lubricate and protect the gut lining.
2. Mucus Layer: The gut lining is covered by a layer of mucus secreted by the epithelial cells. This mucus layer acts as a physical barrier, preventing direct contact between the gut cells and the contents of the digestive system. It also traps pathogens, debris, and toxins, preventing them from damaging the intestinal wall.
3. Tight Junctions: These are specialised protein structures that connect adjacent epithelial cells. Tight junctions play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the gut lining, preventing the leakage of harmful substances and pathogens into the bloodstream.
4. Gut-associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT): This is a component of the immune system that is present in the gut lining. It includes various immune cells, such as lymphocytes, which help defend against infections and regulate immune responses in the digestive system.

What happens when the Gut Lining is Compromised?

The gut lining can be compromised by factors such as poor diet, stress, infections, medications, and chronic inflammation. When the gut lining becomes damaged or "leaky," it may lead to conditions like leaky gut syndrome (see diagram below), which can result in increased inflammation, immune system dysfunction, and various digestive issues. Therefore, it's essential to support gut health by consuming a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and more specifically, promoting the production of mucin and butyrate.

 

Diagram of a "normal" gut lining versus a "leaky" gut lining

The Relationship between Mucin and Butyrate for a Healthy Gut

One way to support a healthy gut health lining is through the promotion of the production of two important substances - mucin and butyrate.

1. Mucin: Mucin is a glycoprotein that plays a critical role in the protection and lubrication of various mucous membranes in the body. It is the primary component of mucus, a thick and sticky substance that lines the respiratory tract, digestive tract, and other organs. Mucin helps to trap and remove foreign particles, dust, and pathogens from the airways and gastrointestinal tract. It also acts as a protective barrier against irritants and helps prevent damage to the underlying tissues.
2. Butyrate: Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) that is produced by the gut microbiota during the fermentation of dietary fibre (which are present in many fruits and vegetables). It is an essential energy source for the cells lining the colon (colonocytes) and has several beneficial effects on gut health. Butyrate has anti-inflammatory properties and helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier. It also supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reduces the risk of inflammation-related gastrointestinal disorders.

The relationship between mucin and butyrate is that butyrate production is essential for maintaining the health of the intestinal lining, including the production and secretion of mucin.

Promoting the production of butyrate can also be important for controlling symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (read more here)

When the gut microbiota ferments dietary fibre, it produces butyrate, which, in turn, stimulates the production of mucin by the intestinal cells. This ensures the proper function of the mucous layer and helps protect the intestinal wall from inflammation and damage.

A healthy gut microbiome with a balanced and diverse population of beneficial bacteria is crucial for maintaining the production of butyrate and supporting the overall health of the gastrointestinal system. Consuming a diet rich in fibre and fermented foods can help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and support the production of butyrate and mucin, ultimately benefiting gut and general health.

For more information please contact Anna or Darcy at info@zesttwellness.com