An overview of SIBO symptoms and treatment by Christine Barnes, M.Well, N.D.
What is SIBO?
- Definition: SIBO is the overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, often a symptom of broader health issues rather than a standalone diagnosis.
- Common Causes: Bacterial imbalance or migration to inappropriate areas within the gut.
Symptoms of SIBO
- Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, and indigestion.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Reduced absorption of nutrients leading to deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
- Systemic Effects: Fatigue, brain fog, and potential hormonal imbalances.
- Other Indicators: Bad breath, greasy stools, food intolerances, and joint pain.
Contributing Factors to SIBO
- Lifestyle and Medical History:
- Stress
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Food poisoning
- Past antibiotic use
- Health Conditions:
- Coeliac disease, Crohn's, diabetes, liver disease.
- Conditions leading to slow motility (gastroparesis).
- Environmental Factors:
- Parasites like Giardia from contaminated water.
- Heavy metal toxicity.
Types of SIBO
- Hydrogen Dominant: Often associated with diarrhea and fat malabsorption.
- Methane Dominant: Linked to constipation and bloating; sometimes weight gain.
- Hydrogen Sulfide Dominant: Causes diarrhea and sulfur-smelling flatulence.
Testing for SIBO
- Breath Testing: Identifies types and levels of SIBO (hydrogen, methane, hydrogen sulfide).
- Comprehensive Gut Testing: Includes microbiome mapping and intestinal permeability tests for a holistic view.
Approaches to Treatment
Nutritional and Herbal Interventions:
- Biofilm disruptors (e.g., Serrapeptase) to expose bacteria.
- Herbal antimicrobials like oregano oil, garlic, and berberine.
Dietary Adjustments:
- Temporarily reduce fermentable carbohydrates and prebiotic-rich foods.
- Tailored diets for methane or hydrogen dominant SIBO.
Restoration Phase:
- Healing the gut lining using supplements like glutamine.