Could it be more than IBS?
Courtesy of my dear colleague Dr Ronda Nelson.
Our gastrointestinal tract is populated with trillions of microorganisms, known as the microbiome.
The bacterial content in the intestinal tract increases in concentration as they get nearer to the rectum. The PH of the stomach is low, which serves as a gate, preventing the invasion of dangerous microorganisms from the food we consume.
In the small intestine bacteria are responsible for the absorption and synthesis of nutrients and to protect against attacking bacteria and yeast.
When bacteria or other non-commensal organisms invade, disruption occurs, leading to:
Food allergies and sensitivities
Increased permeability of the intestinal lining
Nutritional deficiencies such as fat-soluble vitamins B12, iron and many minerals.
Toxaemia from these excessive bacteria
Inflammation
Damage to the normal motility of the gut
What is SIBO and why does it occur?
SIBO is another term for a leaky gut. SIBO occurs when abnormal bacteria colonise the small intestine, altering function, and structure and disrupting the normal ecology
Premature fermentation of food occurs early in the small intestine causing gas, bloating and abdominal pain. Bacteria establish and live inside biofilms to evade immune detection and for added protection.
Bacterial waste in the form of hydrogen, methane or hydrogen sulphide gas causes the small intestinal wall to be distended.
Certain bacteria can excrete toxic acids which, when absorbed through the gut wall, can cause neurological and cognitive symptoms: depression, anxiety, and more serious mental health.
The most common SIBO symptoms are:
Bloating within 30-60 minutes after a meal
Bloating that is worse by the end of the day
Intolerance to fibre, fermented foods, probiotics, prebiotics, garlic, or onions
Chronic constipation or diarrhoea.
Signs to Watch For:
Wake feeling fine: no bloating or abdominal distention
Non-improvement of symptoms in Celiac patients after adhering to a strict gluten-free diet
Development of chronic GI symptoms after taking PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) or acid blockers
Presence of faecal fat (greasy film on water)
Fat-soluble nutrient deficiencies despite supplementation
Cannot gain weight: chronic wasting
Iron-deficient anaemia or B12 despite supplementation
Development of chronic GI symptoms after taking long-term broad-spectrum antibiotics
Development of post-infectious IBS
Improvement of symptoms after taking antibiotics
Constipation is worse with a high-fibre and fluid diet
History of food poisoning, bowel surgery or opioid use
How to diagnose SIBO?
Endoscopy does not detect this condition and is invasive.
Modern microbiome testing can provide valuable information about the pathogenic overgrowth.
Breath testing could be beneficial too.
Diet Tips:
Wait for 3-5hours between meals for the food to be moved along correctly and digested.
Avoid snacking in between meals.
Avoid whole grains and beans
Use nuts and seeds wisely
Lactose-free dairy if often well tolerated.
Herbal therapies can be very beneficial: ginger supports gut motility and reduces spasms.
Find out if you might be suffering from SIBO.
Book your free, no-obligation consultation with Dr Margarita to find out more.
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