Have you ever heard of SIBO? Well, sit tight, you’re about to.
SIBO, which stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, is an extremely common bacterial overgrowth which is present in the small intestine (as the name suggests).
Up to 80% of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) sufferers actually have SIBO, and when the SIBO is addressed, the IBS is managed.
The most common causes of SIBO include:
Extensive antibiotic use
Use of anti-inflammatory, antacid, pain & thyroid medication
Use of the oral contraceptive pill
Emotional stress or trauma
Reproductive conditions such as endometriosis
Diet high in sugar, alcohol & other inflammatory foods
The most common symptoms of SIBO include:
Bloating
Gas
Reflux
Constipation &/or diarrhoea
Abdominal discomfort
Food intolerances such as fructose
Now, the funny thing about SIBO is, you could be eating the cleanest, freshest, wholefood diet in the world and yet you will still experience symptoms. This is because the bacteria that are residing in the small intestine actually feed and thrive off foods that are high in fibre. Fibre is an extremely important food group in our diet as it promotes a healthy gut microbiome and protects us from illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease & bowel cancers.
So the bottom line, treat the SIBO in order to be able to enjoy a wide range of food groups again.
If you or someone you know resonates with the above symptoms, book a consultation today! I would love to help!
Written by Shannon Jolly, Gut Health & Women’s Health Naturopath, June 2024
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