Gut conditions are more common than you might realize; 60 to 70 million people in the U.S. are impacted by some form of digestive issue. One disorder you may have heard of lately is leaky gut syndrome.

So what exactly is leaky gut? Below, we explain what it is, how it affects the body, and share seven gut-expert tips for those new to managing the syndrome.

What Is Leaky Gut?

Leaky gut syndrome is quite literally what it sounds like—your gut barrier becomes compromised, allowing substances that shouldn’t enter or exit to “leak” through. Leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability, occurs when your gut barrier has become dysfunctional or damaged, and can contribute to gastrointestinal issues or other health concerns.

Read my latest for EatingWell: Have Leaky Gut Syndrome? Here’s What Experts Recommend Doing First