Zonulin
What This Test Measures
Marker of intestinal permeability ("leaky gut")
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
Zonulin regulates tight junctions in gut lining. Elevated zonulin (>30) = leaky gut → food particles, bacteria, toxins leak into bloodstream → autoimmunity, inflammation, food sensitivities. Triggered by gluten, dysbiosis, infections. Integrative practitioners address high zonulin with gut repair protocols (remove triggers such as gluten, support the gut lining, probiotics).
When This Test Is High
Leaky gut, celiac disease, autoimmune disease, dysbiosis
When This Test Is Low
Healthy gut barrier
Related Conditions
Autoimmune disease, food sensitivities, IBS
Recommended Follow-Up
If elevated, implement gut healing: remove triggers (gluten, dairy), L-glutamine, bone broth, probiotics