Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Allergy & Intolerance

Zonulin

Zonulin testing assesses intestinal barrier function. For older adults, gut barrier integrity may decline with age, and monitoring supports digestive health management.

What It Measures

This test measures zonulin concentration in blood or stool. Zonulin is the only known physiological regulator of intestinal tight junction permeability. Higher levels suggest greater permeability.

Why It Matters

Increased intestinal permeability may allow harmful substances to cross the gut barrier, triggering immune responses. Elevated zonulin has been linked to coeliac disease, type 1 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease.

When to Test

Consider testing if you have chronic digestive symptoms, autoimmune conditions, food sensitivities, or as part of a functional gut health assessment. Consult your healthcare provider.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low zonulin suggests normal intestinal barrier function and healthy tight junction regulation.

High Levels

Elevated zonulin may be associated with bloating, gas, diarrhoea, food sensitivities, fatigue, and joint pain. It may be present in autoimmune conditions and chronic inflammation.

Lifestyle Tips

Support gut barrier health with a diverse, fibre-rich diet, limiting ultra-processed foods, managing stress, adequate sleep, and avoiding unnecessary NSAID use. Probiotics may support barrier function under medical guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is leaky gut?

Leaky gut refers to increased intestinal permeability where tight junctions become less effective. Zonulin regulates these junctions.

Is zonulin testing widely accepted?

Zonulin research is growing but still evolving. Some aspects of methodology are being refined. Discuss relevance with your healthcare provider.

Can diet affect zonulin?

Yes. Gluten increases zonulin in susceptible individuals. Reducing gluten and processed food may help normalise levels.