Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 10/9/2006

Question
Dear Kritina, sorry for the previous long question. My results from an intestinal permeability test and are as follows:-
lactulose recovery    0.56*H %   <0.30  REF RANGE
mannitol recovery     19.3%     9.5-25.0    "
lactulose-mannitol ratio 0.029    <0.035    "
6 hour collection        0.400 litres

A recent IgG 93 FOOD SENSITIVITY PANEL test showed 17  mild to very stong positive results to different foods some of which I  had been eating eg wheat,rye,almonds,walnuts to name a few.

How would you rate the permeabilty high -low? something to worry about? And do you think this is what is causing the sensitivities which would resolve if I healed the inflammed GI?
Yours Thankfully John Martin  Australia

Answer
Mr Martin,
Thanks for your question.  The high lactulose test indicates an increased permeability and decreased integrity of the mucosal barrier.  The results of your food sensivity panel are likely due to this increased permeability.  When people have multiple reactions to foods, they almost always have some degree of inflammation in the GI tract, and will be less sensitive when this is decreased.  A hypoallergenic diet for 3-6 months usually improves the situation.  During this time, taking foods/ supplements to decrease the inflammation, heal the GI tract, and restore balance in the GI, will help prevent a recurrence in the future.  This may include:  aloe, okra, slippery elm, marshmallow, glutamine, essential fatty acids, fiber, and probiotics.
Good luck as you search for natural health options.  
Dr Conner