SIBO is the acronym for “small intestinal bacterial overgrowth,” defined as excessive bacteria in the small intestine. While bacterium naturally occurs throughout the digestive tract, in a healthy system, the small intestine has relatively low levels of bacteria; it’s supposed to be at highest concentrations in the colon.
The small intestine is the longest section of the digestive tract. This is where the food intermingles with digestive juices, and the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. If SIBO is indicated, malabsorption of nutrients, particularly fat-soluble vitamins and iron, can quickly become a problem.
When in proper balance, the bacterium in the colon helps digest foods and the body absorb essential nutrients. However, when bacteria invades and takes over the small intestine, it can lead to poor nutrient absorption, symptoms commonly associated with IBS, and may even lead to damage of the stomach lining.
When you have SIBO, as food passes through the small intestine, the bacterial overgrowth interferes with the healthy digestive and absorption process. The bacterium associated with SIBO actually consumes some of the foods and nutrients, leading to unpleasant symptoms, including gas, bloating and pain.
Even when treating small intestinal bacterial overgrowth with antibiotics, the relapse rate is high. This is a chronic condition that can be cured, but it takes patience, perseverance and a change in diet. In fact, SIBO treatment includes a healing diet, and some foods should be avoided until the gut flora is back in balance.
Common symptoms of SIBO: The main symptom is IBS, it has shown up in 84% of clients, therefore is an underlying cause of IBS.
- Nausea
- Wind- especially as the day goes on and sometimes smelly from the odorous sulfur smelling gas
- Distention
- Bloating
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or Constipation
- Heartburn, GERD or Reflux
- Malnutrition
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Floating bowel movements
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Asthma
- Depression
Conditions that are associated with SIBO
- Restless leg syndrome
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- ME
- Acne and Skin issues
- Psoriasis
- Rosacea
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraine Headache
- Menstrual Irregularities
- Brian Fog
- Anxiety
- High Cholesterol
- High Blood pressure
- Cardiovascular issues ( as in inflammation from bacterial overgrowth can increase systemic inflammation )
- Depression
- Anemia or B12 deficiency.
SIBO is a common Advanced Testing that can be carried out in the comfort of your own, that can be organised by myself. It is a breathe test, that can detect if you have high levels of Hydrogen or Methane gases. With that information, we can develop a personalised treatment plan to support your health issue. Please contact me for more information.