Snub The SIBO
SIBO is defined as an increase in the number and/or alteration in the type of bacteria in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Most of your gut bacteria are meant to inhabit the large intestine and colon, where they help break down food, synthesize vitamins and eliminate waste. When these “healthy” bacteria that are normally found in the large intestine and colon colonize the small intestine, SIBO occurs. SIBO can also be caused by an overgrowth of otherwise normal bacteria in the small intestine itself.
Causes of SIBO include :
- SIBO can be traced to an unsupported liver. When the liver gets overburdened, bile production reduces, and the liver needs to call on hydrochloric acid to help digest fats. Undigested fats and proteins end up in the small intestine together, and there, the fat grows rancid, making it a favourite food of pathogens.
- Also, damage to the nerves or muscles in the gut can result in leftover bacteria in the small intestine, increasing your risk for SIBO. For example, diabetes mellitus and scleroderma can both affect the muscles in the gut, leaving room for SIBO to develop.
- Physical obstructions in the gut, such as scarring from surgeries or Crohn’s disease, can also cause an abnormal buildup of bacteria in the small intestine. Diverticuli, which are tiny pouches that can form in the wall of the small intestine, can also collect bacteria instead of passing it on to the colon, where it belongs.
- Certain medications like antibiotics, antacids & steroids disrupt normal gut flora. Even elderly are at risk for developing SIBO as the amount of hydrochloric acid in the stomach reduces with age.
And of course, the most common cause for SIBO I see in my clients is from a diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates and alcohol. The bacteria love carbohydrates, both simple & complex, sugar and alcohol. The fermented carbs(by bacterial action) produce hydrogen which is fodder for archaea which produce methane. So, SIBO leads to more hydrogen & methane. Hydrogen-dominant SIBO typically leads to diarrhoea, whereas methane-dominant SIBO is usually associated with constipation.
Symptoms of SIBO include abdominal cramping, IBS, food sensitivities(such as gluten, lactose, fructose and more often histamine intolerance, chronic fatigue syndrome, Vitamin & mineral deficiencies, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, rosacea and inflamed skin. Because these symptoms overlap with so many other conditions, SIBO often remains undiagnosed. In fact, roughly 80% of people with IBS are actually suffering from SIBO.
The hydrogen breath test is often used to detect SIBO, to detect the presence of both hydrogen and methane. A urine test can also be done for by-products of bacterial overgrowth. A stool test can reveal multiple gut infections at one time. If you see all elevated levels of good bacteria, you can suspect SIBO.
Treating SIBO is a 3-step approach to eliminate the overgrowth and restore your gut’s natural balance.
· Starve the overgrown bacteria: Try and eliminate the obvious culprits like sugar, alcohol and carbohydrates(even whole grains and complex ones) for a day. Eat non-starchy vegetables, leafy greens, lean proteins, healthy fats and a moderate portion of fruit.
· Attack the Bacteria: Consult your physician for mild antibiotics(the ones that kill the pathogenic bacteria with least disruption to the good bacteria).
· Restore your good bacteria: By including probiotics as supplements or as fermented foods. This will strengthen the immune system, ensure optimal digestion & nutrient absorption.
Including some simple herbs can help you get rid of SIBO. Rosemary, parsley, thyme, cilantro, sage, oregano are such herbs that can help protect you from having to turn to antibiotics for a bacteria-related health issue in the future. Cilantro works very well to draw out heavy metals from the body. Now you know how the green chutney with your breakfast can work on SIBO too.
Supplementation with Vit C can help bolster the immune system to fight the strep and avoiding many other health issues like UTI, cystic acne, styes, pelvic inflammatory problems and sinus. Zinc and Vit B 12 are other supplements that can contribute to keeping SIBO away.
If left untreated, SIBO can damage the small intestine mucosa and cause a leaky gut which is a threshold for autoimmune conditions and food allergies. Never knew understanding bacteria could be so complicated! Phew!
