10 Signs That You Suffer From SIBO

Flatulence and swelling of the abdomen, no matter how small, can be a sign of intestinal inflammation and imbalance. If you experience other symptoms associated with swelling, such as flatulence and discomfort, this may be a sign that you are suffering from food hypersensitivity or bacterial inflammation that raises the intestinal temperature. The latter is also known as  SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), which means an overgrowth of small intestinal bacteria.

What does SIBO mean?

There are many beneficial bacteria in our gut that take care of digestion and gut function. When the intestinal balance is upset and the bacteria get to multiply too much, it can cause disgusting symptoms. What is causing this? SIBO is often found in people whose diets are high in carbohydrates, highly processed foods, alcohol, and other unhealthy ingredients. Such foods nourish intestinal bacteria and break down fatty acids, which in turn leads to flatulence and swelling.

Another reason for this may be a different type of bacteria that breaks down bile fluid before the body can utilize it in digestion. This leads to slow and poor digestion of food, impaired absorption of fats and diarrhea.

A third cause of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth may be a bacterial strain that develops certain types of toxins.  These damage the intestinal wall and prevent the efficient and natural absorption of nutrients.

10 signs that SIBO has developed in the intestine

The following symptoms are very common when the intestinal bacterial population is upset and there are too many bacteria. Seek medical attention if your symptoms are severe and last for a long time.

• Flatulence.
• Severe bloating.
• Poor absorption of fats.
• Food hypersensitivity and intolerance, especially to lactose, gluten and fructose.
• Abdominal pain and cramps.
• Digestive problems such as constipation.
• IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, or other inflammatory bowel disease.
• Chronic problems such as persistent fatigue, diabetes, fibromyalgia, autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, etc.
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially when it comes to vitamin B12.
• Diarrhea.

What causes bacterial overgrowth?

Bacteria can grow and multiply too much when a factor causes a disruption in the digestive process. Nerve or muscle damage to the gut can prevent bacteria from moving in the gut, which can lead to the development of SIBO.  Some diseases, such as diabetes, can also cause changes in intestinal muscle function, which increases the risk of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

Other possible factors for bacterial overgrowth in the gut include physical blockages in the gut, surgical scars, and Crohn’s disease. Medications that convert the intestinal bacterial strain, such as antibiotics, steroids, and acidifying drugs, can lead to an overgrowth of small intestinal bacteria. Most often, however, SIBO develops as a result of diet, i.e., the consumption of processed and unhealthy foods. So exclude sugar, white flour, alcohol, etc.

Will SIBO appear in the tests?

Bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine can be tested with a home breath test, which you can get instructions from your doctor. The test usually involves fasting for 12 hours and consuming a controlled amount of sugar. It is then inflated into a balloon every 15 minutes for three hours. In this way, SIBO can be tested as well as other diseases such as celiac disease or pancreatic function.

In hospitals and clinics, doctors can also detect SIBO by testing urine and feces. Discuss the topic with your doctor, he or she will be able to determine the need for further research.

How is SIBO treated?

First and foremost, you should take a close look at your diet and reduce your intake of carbohydrates, as well as avoid processed foods such as sugar and wheat flour. Also, limit the amount of alcohol you consume and talk to your doctor if you regularly take medication for any other ailment. Usually, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat SIBO. Don’t start diagnosing and treating yourself, but talk to your doctor.