If you’ve struggled with your gut then you would’ve come across the term “leaky gut” or may have even been diagnosed with it at some point. Leaky gut syndrome has gained significant attention in recent years, with claims that it may be the root cause of a wide range of health issues, from digestive problems to autoimmune diseases and even mental health conditions. But what exactly is leaky gut, and is it a valid medical diagnosis? In today’s episode, Sandra is joined by gastroenterology specialist dietitian, Kirsten Jackson, where they chat about all things leaky! They discuss why this term  has gained attention in alternative and complementary medicine communities, but its recognition and acceptance within the conventional medical community are somewhat divided. What is our intestinal barrier? Are the tests to diagnose leaky gut even valid? If it’s not leaky gut then what? Sandra and Kirsten answer the most frequently asked questions about leaky gut syndrome and how they manage their own clients suspecting it.  About Kirsten Jackson Kirsten Jackson BSc Hons PGCert is a UK consultant dietitian specialising in gut health. Kirsten graduated from The University of Hertfordshire in 2012 before joining the UK national health service where she specialised in gastroenterology. She later went on to complete her post-graduate certificate in Advanced Dietetics at The University of Nottingham. In 2018 Kirsten moved to the UAE as the lead dietitian for Kings College Hospital in Dubai. In this role she was part of the team which developed and opened the first British healthcare facility in the Middle East. Kirsten now runs an online IBS clinic called The Food Treatment Clinic to help those who suffer with the condition. Outside of clinical work, Kirsten is an official media spokesperson for The British Dietetic Association where she has worked on TV and with media outlets such as Cosmopolitan and The Guardian. She is also an expert advisor for the charity, The IBS Network.  Excitingly, Kirsten has recently signed a book deal with Bloomsbury Publishing and you will be able to purchase her book in Spring 2024. Website: www.thefoodtreatmentclinic.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.ibsdietitian/ Connect with your hosts on LinkedIn Sandra Mikhail Wagdy Mikhail  For more information visit instagram.com/nutritionaz_by_sandramikhail OR nutritition-az.com The Gut Chronicles: An uncensored journey into the world of digestive health and illness - Sandra Mikhail’s book