What is SIBO?
SIBO is a chronic bacterial infection of the small intestine and is considered to be an underlying cause of many cases of IBS. The infection involves bacteria being able to colonize the small intestine – an area of the GI tract that normally has relatively low amounts of bacteria.
How does it happen?
The most common cause of SIBO occurs after a bout of gastroenteritis (aka stomach flu/food poisoning/traveller’s diarrhea) and is known as post-infectious IBS. A process occurs in which the immune system begins to attack specific neuromuscular cells within the small intestine that control the Migrating Motor Complex. The MMC is a series of contractions that clear out the small intestine of food remnants, bacteria, and digestive secretions. A damaged or weakened MMC can allow bacteria to stick around the SI and colonize the area.
Other causes can include abdominal adhesions from past surgeries of inflammatory conditions, ileocecal valve dysfunction, and others.
Why is SIBO important?
SIBO symptoms can have a significant effect on the quality of life. In addition, SIBO can lead to nutrient deficiencies due to malabsorption and contribute to intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut).
SIBO questionnaire:
The more “yes” answers and the more severe and frequent symptoms mean a higher suspicion of SIBO.
- Alternating diarrhea and constipation?
- Chronic Constipation?
- Chronic diarrhea?
- Heartburn? Belching after meals?
- Bloating that is worse after meals or gets worse throughout the day?
- Foul-smelling gas?
- Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity but symptoms remain despite gluten avoidance?
- Digestive issues since a bout of gastroenteritis/food poisoning/traveller’s diarrhea?
- Do digestive symptoms improve with the use of antibiotics?
- Are digestive symptoms worse with fibre or probiotics?
- Lactose or fructose intolerance?
- Chronic B12 or iron deficiency?
- Multiple food sensitivities?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome/Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth FAQ
Can you be tested for SIBO
Yes, SIBO can be tested for using a simple at-home breath test.
What are common symptoms?
People with SIBO may experience bloating, distension, gas, abdominal pain or discomfort, loose stool and/or constipation, heartburn/reflux, and nausea.
How does it happen?
The most common cause of SIBO occurs after a bout of gastroenteritis (aka stomach flu/food poisoning/traveller’s diarrhea) and is known as post-infectious IBS. A process occurs in which the immune system begins to attack specific neuromuscular cells within the small intestine that control the Migrating Motor Complex. The MMC is a series of contractions that clear out food remnants, bacteria, and digestive secretions in the small intestine. A damaged or weakened MMC can allow bacteria to stick around the SI and colonize the area.
Other causes can include abdominal adhesions from past surgeries of inflammatory conditions, ileocecal valve dysfunction, and others.
Why is SIBO important?
SIBO symptoms can have a significant effect on quality of life. In addition, SIBO can lead to nutrient deficiencies due to malabsorption and contribute to intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut).
