Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth
Suffering from extreme bloating after eating, abdominal pain, gas and/or chronic diarrhea?
SIBO is a chronic disorder caused by excessive amounts of bacteria in the small intestine. This bacterial overgrowth can lead to a wide array of symptoms.
Additionally, multiple factors can contribute to the development of SIBO. Thus, requires a comprehensive holistic treatment approach.
Signs and Symptoms of SIBO
Symptoms are non-specific and can often overlap with a number of disorders. SIBO can look different between individuals, and is thought the severity and symptoms can depend on the degree of the overgrowth and the composition of the microbes found.
The following are common symptoms:
- Abdominal bloating and distension
- Flatulence
- Acid Reflux
- Abdominal discomfort and pain
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Symptoms are often aggravated by carbohydrates and fermentable foods
SIBO can also impact digestion and lead to the malabsorption of nutrients.
Causes of SIBO:
SIBO can occur as a result of disruption to the regulating mechanisms of the digestive tract. Lack of motility and decrease in stomach acid secretion are the two most common causes of SIBO.
Other factors that contribute to bacterial overgrowth include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Food sensitivities
- Anatomical changes in the digestive tract
- medications such as PPIs
- Age
- gastroparesis
- celiac disease
Diagnosing SIBO:
Due to it's broad symptom picture SIBO can be hard to recognize. Diagnostic testing is required to properly address SIBO. A breath test is the most common way to diagnose SIBO.
SIBO Treatment:
The treatment of SIBO is often done in stages. The four "R" model is commonly used.
Remove: Eliminate pathogenic bacteria, parasites and fungi. This is usually done using anti-microbial herbs or antibiotics.
Replace: Replenish enzymes and other digestive factors
Reinoculate: Probiotics and prebiotics ensure an appropriate amount of "good bacteria"
Repair: nutritional support for regeneration and healing