“Hot girls have stomach issues” is something I see on social media all the time along with jokes and memes about being lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, not being able to trust your gut and so much more. I get it, I’ve laughed at them and I’ve shared them 100 times over because I am that girl! But all of those things could be caused by a little something called SIBO which stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. Now the question is, what is it and why is it causing so many problems?
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, or SIBO, is a really complex digestive disorder caused by an excessive build up of bacteria in the small intestine. Normally, the small intestine contains very low levels of bacteria compared to the colon. However, in SIBO, the balance is messed up, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.
Before jumping further into SIBO, it’s important to understand the role of gut microbiota. Our intestines are home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. These microorganisms play a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. When the balance of these microbes is disrupted, it can lead to lots of digestive issues, including SIBO.
SIBO manifests through a huge range of symptoms, which can vary from person to person. Some of the more common symptoms include:
1. Abdominal Pain: Frequent or intermittent pain and discomfort in the abdominal area.
2. Bloating: Excessive gas production in the small intestine can lead to abdominal bloating.
3. Diarrhea: Chronic or recurrent diarrhea is a common symptom of SIBO.
4. Constipation: In some cases, SIBO can cause constipation due to disruption in normal bowel movements.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Impaired nutrient absorption can lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
6. Fatigue: Malabsorption of nutrients can result in fatigue and weakness.
7. Skin Issues: Skin problems like acne and rosacea have been associated with SIBO.
SIBO can be caused by a range of different things, including:
1. Impaired Intestinal Motility: Reduced intestinal motility can slow down the movement of food and waste through the small intestine, creating an environment conducive to bacterial overgrowth.
2. Weakened Immune System: A compromised immune system may fail to control the bacterial population in the small intestine, allowing it to flourish.
3. Structural Abnormalities: Structural issues in the digestive tract, such as strictures or adhesions, can disrupt the natural flow of food and bacteria.
4. Medications: Certain medications, particularly those that affect gut motility or stomach acid production, can contribute to SIBO development.
5. Dietary Choices: Diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and low in fibre can promote the growth of harmful bacteria in the small intestine.
SIBO is a very challenging digestive condition that can majorly affect your daily life, trust me. However, with a holistic approach to treatment, you can take steps to reduce the symptoms and support your body’s journey towards recovery. Please remember, it’s essential for complete healing to work closely with a qualified healthcare practitioner to develop a personalised plan tailored to your unique needs. By addressing the root causes and nurturing your gut health, you can regain control of your digestive well-being and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life.
This is one of what will be many articles about SIBO as it is a very complicated disorder that has so many symptoms and causes. I will do my best to expand on what symptoms can be caused by SIBO, what possible causes are and how to heal and figure out daily life.
Helpful Resources:
- The Sibo Doctor– for all things SIBO. Information, help, recipes, booklets and courses to help you understand and begin healing now!