Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
If you suffer from IBS you may have come across a condition called SIBO.
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.