SIBO

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine which can lead to malabsorption.

Most of your nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine so SIBO can lead to malabsorption of vitamins and minerals which can lead to nutrient deficiency. When there are healthy levels of bacteria in the small intestine, they do a vital job of digesting and absorbing these nutrients but if they overgrow damage to the gut lining can occur and unpleasant symptoms such as flatulence, bloating, abdominal pain, or constipation and/or diahorrea can occur as well as other systemic problems like brain fog.

What are the symptoms of SIBO?

Bloating
Flatulence
Nausea
Belching
Abdominal pain
Fullness after eating
Diarrhoea and/or constipation
Weight loss
Joint pain
Eczema or skin issues
Rosacea
Asthma
Fatigue

What causes SIBO?

Reduced motility of the digestive tract – which can be due to other conditions such as diverticulosis, pancreatitis, surgery or injury to the small intestine.
Some medications like proton pump inhibitors (Omeprazole) and immune suppressant medications.
Celiac disease.
Aging – digestion slows down, and stomach acid levels drop.
Low stomach acid – essential to kill off bacteria as it enters the body through the mouth.
Gut bacteria imbalances – in the large intestine which can translocate to the small intestine due to issues with the connecting valve.
Food poisoning.

Conventional approach

A low FODMAP diet is usually advised alongside antibiotics to kill off the bacteria.

Things you can do:

Try an elimination diet. Reduce high FODMAP foods to see if these are triggering symptoms.
These foods include;
• Garlic, Leek and onions
• Brassica vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage,
• Beans and lentils
• Fruits like apples, pears and peaches
• Wheat
• Dairy
Eat smaller meals. 5-6 meals a day instead of 3. This helps with digestion and also means the food isn’t sitting in the stomach for as long, effective stomach acid levels.
Reduce stress levels – take up meditation, deep breathing, yoga or tai chi or walk in nature daily.

What can Functional Medicine do to support?

Use breath testing to determine if SIBO is present, the levels of hydrogen and methane being produced and the extent of the overgrowth.
Identify the root causes of your SIBO and address the issue from the root cause.
Utilise a low FODMAP diet alongside anti-microbial herbs to get the SIBO under control.
Guide you through reintroduction of these foods and support all aspects of your digestive health to keep SIBO at bay.