have been found to induce “leaky gut” and
inflammation.^31
Processed food additives. More on this in a moment.Any of these stimuli can facilitate the leakage of
endotoxin into circulation, even if you’re on a gluten-free
diet. Conversely, various plant compounds such as
quercetin (a polyphenol found in onions, capers,
blueberries, and tea) as well as the amino acid L-glutamine
have been found to reduce gut permeability and promote
better function of the gut lining.^32 And fiber, that miraculous
and underrated nutrient, may be the most important of all,
through its effect on an important albeit slimy structure
called the mucosa.
Our Marvelous Mucosa
Thankfully, the epithelial cell layer doesn’t have to defend
against our constant daily onslaught of toxic substances and
microbes on its own.
In between the epithelium and the trillions of microbial
cells of the microbiome, there is a dynamic matrix of mucus
known as the mucosa, which comprises a form of
carbohydrate called mucin. This mucus is produced by the
cells of the epithelium and is essentially where the rubber
hits the road for the microbiome—not only does it provide a
soft hammock upon which the bacteria luxuriate, but the
mucus itself acts as a “demilitarized zone”—a layer of
protection for the epithelial cells.