Pain relievers are subject of new ‘gut-level’ warnings

Last week I told you about a new study showing that pain relievers known as NSAIDs can bring on A-fib.

Now a new look at some older studies has found that the OTC versions can play havoc with your gut as well.

These drugs, researchers say, can up your risk for “leaky gut syndrome.” That’s when infectious agents or toxins “leak” though the lining of your intestine into your bloodstream.

One NIH study found all the common NSAIDs, aside from aspirin, to be “equally associated with small intestinal inflammation.”

And to think these drugs are called “anti-inflammatories”!

They even found that some people can develop celiac or gluten intolerance as a side effect of taking them, according to Dr. Alessio Fasano, director of the Center for Celiac Research at Massachusetts General Hospital.

And if all that wasn’t bad enough, NSAIDS can even harm you while exercising! Ibuprofen, the researchers said, can cause intestinal damage in healthy people when taken while working out.

If your ‘gut reaction’ to all this is to turn to some safer ways to relieve pain, then I’ve said enough about NSAIDs!