Cramping in the abdomen, excessive flatulence, uncomfortable distention, queasiness, irregular bowel movements — these distressing manifestations are often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but they can also be indicative of a lesser-known condition known as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). While the awareness of IBS, affecting a substantial number of individuals ranging from 25 to 45 million in the United States, is relatively widespread, SIBO might be the stealthy culprit lurking behind your gastrointestinal troubles.
What is SIBO?
SIBO, or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, is a condition characterized by the excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine. While the small intestine normally contains some bacteria, SIBO occurs when the balance of bacteria is disrupted and an overgrowth occurs.
The exact causes of SIBO are not fully understood, but there are several factors that can contribute to its development. These include:
It’s important to note that while these factors can contribute to the development of SIBO, the exact cause may vary from person to person. Additionally, there may be other yet unidentified factors involved in the development of SIBO. If you suspect you have SIBO, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Certain research suggests that as high as 80% of individuals grappling with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are afflicted by small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The exact occurrence rate of SIBO in healthy individuals remains elusive. Medical professionals tend to believe that SIBO is commonly overlooked in diagnosis. In mild instances, symptoms may not manifest, whereas moderate cases manifest a multitude of non-specific symptoms that intersect with various other ailments, including IBS. SIBO is not frequently subjected to direct testing, and even if it is, the available diagnostic tests are flawed.
Symptoms of SIBO
Remember, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.
Are there different kinds of SIBO?
There are different classifications or subtypes of SIBO based on the specific types of bacteria involved. The two primary subtypes of SIBO are hydrogen-dominant SIBO and methane-dominant SIBO.
In some cases, individuals may have a combination of both hydrogen-dominant and methane-dominant SIBO, which is known as mixed SIBO. It is worth noting that the classification of SIBO into subtypes is not always clear-cut, and there may be variations and overlap in clinical presentation. The specific subtype of SIBO can be determined through breath testing, where the levels of hydrogen and methane gases are measured following the ingestion of a substrate such as lactulose or glucose. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment plan based on the specific subtype and severity of SIBO.
SIBO – potential trigger foods
Although foods are not the primary cause of SIBO, certain foods can promote the growth of problematic bacteria in the small intestine. Feeding these bacteria their preferred foods can exacerbate SIBO symptoms. Conversely, you can help reduce bacterial overgrowth by depriving them of their favored foods. This approach has led to various proposed SIBO diet plans, which may yield different results for each individual. However, these diets generally recommend limiting the consumption of carbohydrates, including:
By reducing the intake of these food categories, it is believed that the growth of bacteria in the small intestine can be better managed. The key lies in providing patients with a personalized diet and tailored treatment approach.
How is SIBO diagnosed?
Diagnosing SIBO can be challenging since its symptoms can overlap with various other gastrointestinal conditions that you may already be experiencing. Therefore, SIBO may not be the initial suspicion during a medical evaluation. However, if your symptoms and medical history indicate the possibility of SIBO, your healthcare provider may propose a breath test to confirm the diagnosis. This straightforward and non-invasive test measures the levels of hydrogen and/or methane in your breath, indicating the presence of gas-producing bacteria in your gut. Elevated levels of these gases suggest an overabundance of bacteria.
To further investigate the potential causes and complications of SIBO, your healthcare provider might recommend additional tests, such as:
By conducting these tests, healthcare providers can gather more information to aid in diagnosing and managing SIBO effectively.
SIBO treatment
SIBO often arises as a complication of another condition, further exacerbating complications of its own. When it comes to treating SIBO, healthcare providers must address multiple facets:
Typically, a course of antibiotics is employed as the standard medical treatment for bacterial overgrowth. Healthcare providers will then focus on managing acute complications, which may involve providing nutritional support and supplements to address vitamin and mineral deficiencies. They might also prescribe a short-term, strict diet to alleviate symptoms, followed by a modified, long-term diet plan to restore nutrition and regulate bacterial overgrowth.
Ultimately, healthcare providers strive to identify and address the root cause of SIBO, which may necessitate further diagnostic testing. If a motility disorder is suspected, motility agents might be prescribed to facilitate healthy intestinal movement. In cases involving structural abnormalities, surgical intervention may be recommended to correct the issue.
References:
Diabetes has emerged as a major public health concern in India, with the country being…
Pan-Seared Halibut with Lemon Herb Sauce is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any…
Seared Scallops in Olive Oil is a dish that highlights the natural sweetness and delicate…
A Salmon Burger is a delicious and healthy alternative to the traditional beef burger. Made…
Salmon Tacos bring a fresh, healthy twist to the classic taco. Flaky, tender salmon is…
Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light…