Many people suffer from SIBO (Small Intestinal Bowel Overgrowth) without being aware of their condition. SIBO occurs when your gut bacteria relocate from the large intestine to the small intestine, causing digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhoea, bloating, burping and reflux. SIBO is also associated with brain fog, joint pain, skin issues, nutritional deficiencies, gallstones, acne, autism, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, gallstones and many more health conditions.
Did you know that
43% of diabetes patients suffer from SIBO?
66% of coeliac sufferers were found to have SIBO?
80% of people diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome have SIBO?
What causes SIBO?
Different circumstances can cause your bacteria to travel. Some are:
- Gastrointestinal infection
- Bad diet - especially overconsumption of simple carbohydrates such as sugar.
- Chronic stress
- Medication such as proton pump inhibitors
- Dysbiosis (imbalance gut flora)
- Low hydrochloric acid
When can you suspect having SIBO?
- if you experience severe bloating 60-90 minutes after meals
- if you have chronic diarrhoea or constipation - if your symptoms started after a gastrointestinal infection, taking antibiotics or medication that reduces hydrochloric acid production
- if you have IBS and have not been able to treat it
Bear in mind, that not everyone experiences gastrointestinal symptoms. A simple test can determine if you are affected. If left untreated, SIBO can cause other health problems, such as autoimmune diseases.