The Hidden Connection Between Parasites and Leaky Gut
- Jul 11
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 26

Leaky gut, or intestinal permeability, occurs when the lining of your intestines becomes compromised. This allows toxins, microbes, and undigested food to pass into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and immune dysfunction. One of the most overlooked contributors to leaky gut is parasitic infection.
How Parasites Contribute to Leaky Gut:
1. Damage to the Gut Wall.
Parasites such as Giardia, Blastocystis hominis, and helminths can burrow into the intestinal lining, releasing enzymes and toxins that weaken the gut barrier.
2. Immune Overactivation
Persistent immune responses to parasites lead to inflammation, which further degrades tight junctions in the gut lining.
