SIBO Symptoms
What is SIBO?
SIBO is an acronym that stands for “Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth”, which basically means there’s too much bacterial buildup in the small intestine. Normally, the digestive system is filled with bacteria, but the amount of gut bacteria varies based on the location.
For example, the large intestine has a lower concentration of bacteria due to the presence of bile and the constant flow of content, all working together to help absorb nutrients. On the other hand, the colon, also known as the large intestine, has a higher concentration of bacteria, over 700 species of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and archaea.
Overall, the balance of bacteria in either organ is essential, and an imbalance leads to complications like abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and diarrhea.
The small intestine primarily helps to absorb nutrients into the bloodstream after digestion. However, when there is excess bacteria in the gut, it can disrupt the process in the following ways:
Competing for Nutrients: The excess bacteria in the small intestine can feed off the essential nutrients for the body, resulting in malnutrition and other deficiencies. SIBO also inflames the lining of the small intestine, which makes it difficult to absorb nutrients.
Gas Production: SIBO patients may feel bloated because of the gas produced by the bacteria as they feed off food in the small intestine. This bloatedness feels uncomfortable as the small intestine wasn’t meant to expand or expel gas, unlike the large intestine.
Slow Digestive Movement: SIBO can disrupt the normal rhythmic movement of the intestine, resulting in slower mobility that manifests as constipation and pain.
These factors can result in persistent discomfort and malnutrition, which can lower the quality of life. Therefore, treatment is necessary for relief.
Symptoms of SIBO
While fatigue, bloating, and abdominal pain are the most common SIBO symptoms, there are other signs to watch out for. This section will explore these signs of SIBO and why they occur.
Abdominal Pain and Discomfort
The abdominal pain SIBO patients often feel is a result of inflammation of the small interesting lining, which then leads to distress symptoms like cramping.
Bloating and Gas
One of the most common symptoms of SIBO is bloating and gas, which is caused by the bacteria eating and fermenting food in the body. The result is an increased production of methane and hydrogen gas.
However, the discomfort comes from factors like a delayed intestinal transit and a dysfunctional valve between the colon and small intestine, which can exacerbate elevated hydrogen levels.
Nausea & Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are also common signs of SIBO because the excessive bacterial growth disrupts the digestive system, which can trigger these gastrointestinal symptoms.
Diarrhea or Constipation
SIBO patients can face Diarrhea or constipation since the overgrowth of bacteria can disrupt the gut microbiome and make defecation challenging. People with more methane gas in their system will experience constipation; others with more hydrogen buildup will struggle with diarrhea.
Loss of Appetite
One might become intolerant to some of the foods and beverages that they previously enjoyed. This intolerance is higher for foods with lactose, fructose, gluten, and histamine.
Unintentional Weight Loss or Weight Gain
SIBO can lead to weight loss because it interferes with nutrient absorption in the small interest, but it can also cause the body cells to be resistant to insulin. This makes it harder to use glucose energy, leading to higher blood sugar, increased fat storage, and weight gain.
These are some of the many symptoms of SIBO. However, to be sure you have SIBO and not irritable bowel syndrome IBS, consider taking a SIBO (Irritable Bowel) Breath Test recommended by the IFDW.
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When to See a Doctor for SIBO
SBIO can go on its own if you make some lifestyle and dietary changes, but sometimes, you may need to see the doctor, especially when the symptoms become severe and need medical intervention.
Some examples include:
Diarrhea is an expected sign of SIBO; however, it becomes problematic if it persists for two days because it can lead to dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and other complications.
It’s normal to slowly lose weight, but if this drop in weight is sudden and without a clear reason, seek medical help. This means your body isn’t receiving enough nutrients, and your body may begin to shut down due to a lack of vitamins and other essential nutrients.
Abdominal pains can come from overeating, a bad meal, and also SIBO, but if it persists for two days or more, visit the doctor for SIBO treatment. This also applies if the abdominal pain escalates and becomes unbearable.
Although the human body is resilient and can fight infections, it’s crucial to understand these conditions and know when to seek medical help. Once you recognize risk factors like severe abdominal pain, rapid weight loss, and persistent diarrhea, consult a health professional immediately.
You can schedule a Free Expert Consultation with one of our IFDW SIBO Experts
FREE: IBS & SIBO Expert Consultation
Then talk to one of our Experts and let them guide you.
Causes of SIBO
Specific disturbances within our gastrointestinal (GI) tract can cause SIBO, and these include:
Decreased Acid Production: The stomach not only helps with digestion but also keeps the bacteria population in check. So, if the amount of acid produced decreases, bacteria will flourish, which will lead to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Compromised GI Tract Movement: The rhythmic movement of the GI tract ensures that food particles and microbes either nourish the body or get excreted. However, a decrease in this movement can give bacteria the opportunity to settle and multiply.
Intestinal Lining Damage: The protective lining of our intestine is our first line of defense against harmful invaders. However, when this lining gets damaged, it can become a breeding ground for unwelcome bacteria.
It’s worth noting that some inherent conditions and medical procedures can also lead to SIBO. These include:
Genetic Disorders: Some people are born with genetic conditions that make them more susceptible to SIBO. For example, Methylation genetics may contribute to SIBO because it impacts neurotransmitter production, which affects intestinal motility.
Surgical Interventions: Surgeries, especially those involving the GI tract, can sometimes alter its structure and can cause bacterial overgrowth.
These are some of the medical factors that can either cause SIBO or contribute to its development. If you experience any of the mentioned points, consider taking action once SIBO symptoms manifest.
Conditions and Risk Factors for SIBO
Certain conditions, which may seem unrelated, can increase the risk of developing SIBO. These include:
Immune system deficiencies
Chronic pancreatitis
Celiac disease
Crohn disease
Prior radiation therapy for cancer
Medications (Antibiotics, Proton Pump inhibitors, etc,)
Food poisoning or infection
Old Age
Note that this isn’t an extensive list of factors that can increase one’s susceptibility to SIBO. Sometimes, there aren’t obvious reasons why someone developed SIBO, like radiation exposure and diabetes. This is why professionals recommend medical examinations to produce more concrete answers.
Therefore, it is best to contact a health professional whenever you start experiencing SIBO symptoms.
What Foods Trigger SIBO?
Several factors can contribute to the development of SIBO and foods are part of these triggers. These include:
Carbohydrates
While carbohydrates are the easiest energy source for our bodies, they can become an unintended feast for bacteria in the small intestine. This includes foods like beans, lentils, and whole grains, as they can sometimes ferment in the small intestine, especially if they aren't broken down properly.
Sugars like lactose (found in dairy products) and fructose (present in many fruits and sweeteners) can be problematic if poorly absorbed. This means they reach the small intestine undigested and become a source of food for bacterial growth.
Fiber
While fiber is important for digestive health, certain high-fiber foods can become a breeding ground for bacteria if they remain undigested in the small intestine. So, foods like whole grains, nuts, seeds, and certain vegetables can contribute to SIBO development if not consumed moderately.
Artificial Sweeteners
Some artificial sweeteners like Sorbitol and Mannitol can disrupt the gut's delicate balance. These two are found in many sugar-free products. They can ferment in the gut and create the perfect conditions for increased bacterial growth.
Alcohol
While an occasional drink might not be harmful, excessive alcohol can reduce the stomach's acid production, enabling more bacteria to survive and migrate to the small intestine. Therefore, moderation is the key to reducing your chances of developing SIBO through alcohol.
Knowing the different foods that can trigger SIBO is another layer of defense against the condition. With this information, ensure to prioritize a balanced diet, limit alcohol intake, and understand how certain foods can exacerbate SIBO symptoms.
Consider partnering with a nutritionist or healthcare expert to provide a personalized dietary plan that aims to produce optimum gut health.
Final Thoughts
In the end, SIBO is when excess bacteria grow in the small intestine and can result in discomforts like bloating, cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, and much more. It’s essential to contact a health professional if you experience SIBO symptoms, as they can properly diagnose you and make recommendations to improve your gut health.
IF you want a more convenient test you can perform at home, consider using the IFDW SIBO (Irritable Bowel) Breath Test, which gives you accurate results with little to no hassle.
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