There may be something lurking within your digestive system, when and where you least expect it. 

You’re probably already in tune with keeping the large intestine healthy, balanced, and well- populated with good bacteria (got probiotics?). But, what about the health of the small intestine that is located before it in the digestive tract?

The truth is, this is where the serious business of nutrient absorption happens before the waste products are sent through to the large intestine or bowel to be expelled.

As you can imagine, there’s quite a slippery slope that ensues when the flora in this critical stretch of digestive highway goes out of balance.

What is SIBO and what are the symptoms?

SIBO or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth is when bacteria or other microorganisms, good or bad, grow out of control in the small intestine - an area that would normally have a low bacterial count, as compared to the large intestine.

Microorganisms setting up shop in this area (colonization) end up damaging the cells lining the small intestine. This is otherwise known as leaky gut or an increase in intestinal permeability.

This, in turn, impairs the digestive process and overall absorption of nutrients which exacerbate nutritional deficiencies, allow toxins, pathogens and undigested protein molecules to enter the bloodstream that then cause widespread inflammation, food sensitivities, autoimmune disorders, and other immune reactions.

The most common symptoms of SIBO are:

• Malabsorption issues and malnutrition

• Weight loss (or gain)

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Abdominal bloating or distention

• Abdominal pain or discomfort

• Acid reflux or heartburn (GERD)

• Excessive gas or belching

• Constipation and/or diarrhea

• Fatigue

• Skin issues like rashes, acne, eczema and rosacea

• Aches and pains, especially joint pain

As mentioned, one of the biggest concerns with SIBO is that essential nutrients, protein, carbohydrates, and fats aren’t being properly absorbed, causing deficiencies of iron, vitamin B12, calcium, and in the fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E and K.

What causes SIBO?

According to experts, the causes are not clearly defined but contributing factors to being diagnosed with SIBO can include:

• Aging

• Metabolic disorders, including diabetes

• Chronic pancreatitis

• Diverticulosis

• Injury to the bowel

• Recent abdominal surgery

Celiac disease is also associated with an increased risk for developing SIBO, and can be of particular concern, as it disturbs digestive motility leading to poor functioning of the small intestine.

Another common condition associated with SIBO is Irritable Bowel Syndrome. As a matter fact, studies have found that SIBO occurs simultaneously in more than half of all cases of IBS. It has even been reported that successful elimination of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine resolves symptoms of IBS too.

The use of certain medications, including immunosuppressant medications, and proton pump inhibitors (acid reflux medications) as well as heavy metal toxicity, low stomach acid, inflammatory diets, and yep, you guessed it, stress - are all thought to be contributors as well.

How can you test for SIBO?

It is typically diagnosed using a breath test in which the patient drinks a sugar-containing drink and exhaled gases are measured.

If there are too many bacteria, excess gases (hydrogen, methane, or both) will be produced. It should be noted that the reliability of this test is considered less than ideal, but it’s one of the only methods available at this time. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and to find out about your candidacy for testing.

What’s the treatment for it?

Health practitioners advise adhering strictly to the “SIBO diet” for at least 2 weeks - which may include any (or all) of the following protocols:

• A low FODMAP, GAPS and/or AIP diet; unfortunately, this includes avoiding garlic and onions

• Stress management; yes, this can help heal your digestive system!

• Repopulating the good bacteria using probiotics, and then feed with prebiotics

In more severe or persistent cases, a prescription antibiotic may be needed to get the overgrowth under control.

Talk to your doctor if you have persistent symptoms of SIBO.