Zonulin in stool

When is this test useful?

You should use this test if you suspect you have a leaky gut .
Such complaints are often associated with food intolerances , food allergies , and intestinal problems .

What is being tested?

The protein zonulin is tested, which is considered an indicator of increased intestinal permeability .

What is zonulin?

As a central regulator of tight junctions, zonulin represents an important control element of intestinal permeability .
A disturbance of the intestinal environment or inflammatory processes in the intestine activate zonulin production and are consequently associated with increased permeability of the intestinal mucosa .

In this case:

• The protection against disease-causing germs from the intestine may be impaired.
• This can promote the development of allergies.

This disorder of intestinal permeability is known as leaky gut syndrome .

Connection to nutrition and gut flora

Interestingly, the short-chain fatty acid butyrate has been identified as a zonulin-lowering factor . Zonulin levels can be influenced by dietary adjustments .

Butyrate is produced as a fermentation product of soluble dietary fiber by certain genera of the intestinal bacteria phylum Firmicutes . It appears to reduce both zonulin production and the associated risk of an inflammatory flare-up , such as rheumatoid arthritis.

In the management of diseases associated with increased intestinal permeability , diet can be of great importance . Targeted manipulation of the gut microbiota can have a supportive effect – in addition to other measures – for example, through the intake of pre- and probiotic foods .

Scope of delivery and execution