SIBO is often diagnosed in those with a history of frequent antibiotic exposure, use of acid-blocking drugs or proton pump inhibitors, and/or gut motility problems (surgeries, nerve damage, ileocecal valve dysfunction, etc.). You don’t even have to experience digestive system symptoms to have a SIBO problem. In fact, many people with this condition have a brain-based problem such as anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, or depression. Because SIBO interferes with the methylation cycle, it can cause many common health problems such as chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, infertility, heart disease, and more.
When bacteria that are normally present in the colon (large intestine) become dramatically overpopulated they can migrate to the small intestine– a part of the digestive tract where they do not belong! This leads to many detrimental effects, not only creating symptoms that can make life downright miserable, but also putting you at risk for a number of chronic conditions associated with long term protein, fat, and nutrient malabsorption.
Those who are suffering from SIBO frequently experience excessive gas or bloating, abdominal discomfort, chronic diarrhea or constipation, food intolerances or sensitivities, weight loss, anemia, and low energy. Because the bacteria are living where they don’t belong (in the small intestine), they are eating your food first! Even if you are eating a perfectly clean diet and taking the highest quality supplements, you are not benefitting from that nutrition.
Instead, the bacteria are stealing your B-vitamins and iron and other nutrients to grow, while producing a nasty array of byproducts and toxins from their own metabolism. Some of these byproducts (i.e., folic acid) can cause neurological and cognitive symptoms, making methylation issues worse!
Many patients with SIBO have been treated with antibiotics without any lasting results. This is problematic since antibiotics are one of the biggest causes of SIBO in the first place. Healing from SIBO is possible, but it requires a comprehensive approach that involves restoring digestive function, eliminating excess bacteria, avoid problem foods, and replenishing the gut with beneficial bacteria. Our team of doctors are specially trained to provide comprehensive support for your digestive system, helping you overcome this issue quickly and get back to living your life.