However, until now leaky gut syndrome has been written off as a way for alternative-health practitioners to sell supplements that supposedly 'cure' it.

Are modern lifestyle choices to blame for an increase in leaky gut?

Here the reporter was told that she had excess yeast in her intestines which could lead to a complaint called 'leaky gut syndrome'.

Improved digestion also helps to avert 'leaky gut', where potentially allergenic proteins seep through its lining into the bloodstream.

With such a wide-ranging list of possible symptoms, diagnosis can be tricky - another reason leaky gut has been largely overlooked.