SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and occurs when an elevated number of bacteria are found in the small intestine.
Since the small intestine is meant to contain a low number of bacteria, an overgrowth of organisms can lead to symptoms of IBS.
These are symptoms such as:
- bloating
- cramping
- altered bowel patterns (constipation or diarrhoea)
- heartburn
- unpredictable food reactions
It has been estimated by some that up to 80% of those with IBS have SIBO.
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Clues it may be SIBO
In addition to the symptoms of bloating, cramping, abdominal pain and constipation or diarrhea there are additional indicators that SIBO may be present.
- You feel worse with prebiotics or probiotics.
- Your bloating starts within 1 hour of eating.
- Your symptoms started following a case of food poisoning or travellers diarrhoea.
- The symptoms improved temporarily while on antibiotics for an unrelated problem.
- Fibre worsens bowel movements.
- You’re Coeliac yet continue to have symptoms whilst on a gluten-free diet.
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Underlying Causes of SIBO
Impaired Digestion
Microbiome dysfunction, chronic stress, sIgA deficiency,
poor bile flow, low stomach acid.
Altered Motility
Hypothyroidism, diabetes, chronic infection,
MMC damage, scleroderma, traumatic brain injury.
Medications
Opiates, proton pump inhibitors,
tricyclic antidepressants.
Impaired Flow Through the Intestines
Ileocecal valve dysfunction, endometriosis,
abdominal surgeries/adhesions, EDS.
Road to resolution
Once we have established the likelihood of an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine the approach is 3 fold:
Lower the bacterial load in the small intestine
Support the healing of the gut lining
Address the underlying cause of the overgrowth
Testing for SIBO
The small intestine is a particularly tricky place to get to. However, one test we can use is the SIBO breath test.
- The test is performed by drinking a sugar solution which acts as a food source for the bacteria in the digestive system. When the bacteria come into contact with this sugar solution, fermentation takes place.
- The gases produced during the fermentation process are then absorbed into general circulation, transferred into the lungs, and then exhaled.
- Elevated levels of these gases found in breath samples can indicate the presence of SIBO which can then help guide your protocol.
- These tests can be carried out in your own home with results typically back from the lab within 10 working days.
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Frequently Asked SIBO Questions
Are there different types of SIBO?
The SIBO tests measure 2 types of gas, hydrogen, and methane. If there are elevations in 1 of these gases, we can name that Hydrogen or Methane SIBO. It’s also possible to have elevations in both gases.
The type of gas that is elevated helps to guide supplement protocols to target the specific organisms that produce that type of gas.
A third type of gas, hydrogen sulfide, can also be produced by the gut bacteria. However, it is not currently possible to test for this gas.
Are supplements needed to address SIBO?
Generally speaking, there are 3 components to a supplement protocol to address the elevated bacteria in SIBO. These can include a combination of probiotics, prebiotics, and antimicrobial herbs.
Depending on the underlying issue (eg. the reasons why the bacteria are there in the first place) additional supplements may be suggested.
Can SIBO be cured?
SIBO is a bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine with several underlying causes. The majority of those with SIBO can have the small intestine rebalance, however, there are also some who either have treatment-resistant or chronic SIBO.
This largely depends on the underlying cause. Particularly, if parts of the small intestine have been damaged, this may lead to reoccurring SIBO.
Is the SIBO breath test available on the NHS?
This SIBO test may be offered through the NHS, however, it’s not uncommon for the waiting time for this test to be several months.
By ordering directly from the laboratory, we are able to have the test sent to your home within 3-5 days. The results will be back 7-10 days after the laboratory has received the samples.
What tests are available for SIBO?
The SIBO breath test can be sent straight to your home. With results back from the lab within 7-10 days, this is a quick and valuable insight into your gut health.
Can I speak with you before booking a consultation?
I always like to speak with people before booking a consultation. This can help me understand your symptoms and to make sure this is the right approach for you.
