Which probiotics have been shown to be helpful in “leaky gut”?

     Probiotics can be helpful when there is excessive intestinal permeability thanks to different mechanisms. Here are some of the most studied:

-S. boulardii: due to its strong antimicrobial action, it has been shown to promote the health of intestinal cell junctions.

-L. plantarum: several strains of this species have been shown to improve zonulin levels (if they are elevated, it indicates excessive permeability).

-The Bifidobacterium genus and, specifically, B. longum, B. bifidum, B. lactis and B. infantis have been studied for their positive effect on intestinal barrier function and reduction of endotoxemia.

-L. rhamnosus GG: modulates pro-inflammatory signals and preserves the proteins that are part of the tight junctions from damage caused by lipopolysaccharides (membrane endotoxin of gram-negative bacteria).

    These are just a few examples, because many combinations of probiotic microorganisms have been studied for intestinal permeability.

    The most important thing is to identify the cause of the permeability and seek a personalized solution. In this regard, probiotics can be a great ally, helping to restore the microbiota and reinforcing the barrier that protects our intestine.