Is SIBO causing your IBS symptoms?
Having lived with SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) first-hand, I totally understand the struggle.
Ever had those frustrating trips to the doctor with tummy issues, only to be told you’re fine?
I used to think my healthy eating habits were spot on. However, despite all the green smoothies, kale, legumes and fermented foods, I felt 6 months pregnant by the end of the day. Turns out, those ‘healthy’ foods were some of the culprits behind my discomfort.
After some sleuthing and a visit to a nutritional therapist in London, it transpired I had SIBO and this was causing my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Armed with this knowledge, we tackled it head-on and I even went on to study nutritional therapy so I could share this information with others.
This wasn’t the end of my story, as I learned you still need to address the root causes of your SIBO to find further digestive freedom, as it has a nasty habit of returning so I’ve had to dig a little deeper over the years.
Through diet tweaks, supplements, building resiliency to stress and addressing mould and digestive function I’m feeling so much better. It’s an ongoing journey, but I’m grateful for the progress I’ve made.
Did you know up to 78% of people diagnosed with IBS also have SIBO!
SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, which occurs when bacteria migrate from the large intestine to the small intestine and overgrow, causing an imbalance. These bacteria aren’t necessarily bad but are just dwelling in the wrong place. They then ferment food within the small intestine, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. Sadly, they love to feed on sugars and fibre from healthy foods too.
SIBO and IBS often go hand-in-hand, like two peas in a pod! Research suggests that up to 78% of individuals with IBS also have SIBO, further complicating and possibly driving your IBS symptoms.
This connection highlights the importance of addressing SIBO in order to find relief from IBS-related discomfort.
If you’ve been diagnosed with IBS, SIBO might be the underlying cause.
The good news is that instead of merely managing IBS symptoms with increasingly restrictive diets, addressing SIBO can significantly improve gut health and greatly expand the variety of foods you can tolerate. Restrictive diets can negatively impact overall gut health, so eliminating SIBO could offer substantial relief.
Common symptoms of SIBO:
Now, let’s uncover the common symptoms that may indicate the presence of SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).
- Bloating: Feel like a balloon expanding after meals? Is this worse in the evening?
- Abdominal pain: Unexplained stomach aches and cramping
- Gas: Excessive flatulence, belching, or a gassy feeling
- Diarrhoea or constipation: SIBO can disrupt the normal functioning of your intestines, leading to changes in bowel habits.
- Nutritional deficiencies: An overgrowth of bacteria can interfere with nutrient absorption, potentially causing deficiencies e.g. iron, b12
- Fatigue: SIBO-related inflammation and poor nutrient absorption might leave you feeling drained or suffering from brain fog
- Heartburn / GERD symptoms
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Possible nausea
- The use of antibiotics gives temporary improvement in symptoms
- Probiotics containing pre-biotics worsen symptoms
- Eating a “clean” diet worsens symptoms
- Fibre worsens constipation
- Food reactions, especially to carbohydrates
- Restless legs
- Depression or anxiety
- Body pain
- Poor sleep or insomnia
As you can see SIBO symptoms very much overlap with IBS symptoms. How many can you relate to?
My holistic approach to SIBO
Firstly we’ll consider testing, however this isn’t always essential or my first port of call. Often we address the basics first.
Diagnosing SIBO typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and a breath test.
The most common diagnostic tool for SIBO is the lactulose or glucose breath test. After ingesting a sugar solution, breath samples are taken at regular intervals to measure hydrogen and methane levels, which indicate bacterial fermentation.
The thing is you can have SIBO but it is generally a symptom of an underlying issue such as stress, poor detoxification, digestive function or issues with the migrating motor complex (MMC). Usually it is caused by multiple factors and this is where a stool test can also shed light on these factors and guide personalised interventions.
Formulating a whole ecosystem gut support plan
In my practice, I believe that effective management of SIBO goes beyond simply targeting and eliminating harmful bacteria. Instead, I work with clients to create a comprehensive gut support plan that promotes a healthy and balanced gut environment. This approach includes:
- Gut terrain assessment: Evaluating the overall condition of the gut, including the mucosal lining, microbiome balance, and digestive function.
- Individualised dietary recommendations: Tailoring dietary advice to each client’s unique needs, preferences, and health status. Aiming for as much diversity as your body can handle.
- Targeted supplementation: Using specific supplements to support digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and restore gut health. My focus generally isn’t on killing the overgrown bacteria, or at least not initially.
- Lifestyle modifications: Encouraging techniques to build stress resilience, regular movement, optimising sleep, mindful eating, meal spacing and adequate hydration.
Supporting clients on their journey to wellness
My goal is to support clients throughout their journey back to wellness by:
- Educating: Providing clients with the knowledge and tools they need to understand their condition and make informed decisions about their health.
- Empowering: Encouraging clients to take an active role in their health by setting realistic goals and tracking their progress.
- Encouraging: Offering continuous support and motivation to help clients stay committed to their gut health plan.
SIBO is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach for effective management. As a nutritional therapist in Cornwall, UK, I recommend a combination of dietary changes, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications to address the root causes of SIBO and alleviate symptoms. By focusing on creating a balanced and supportive gut environment, my approach helps clients not only manage SIBO but also achieve long-term digestive health and overall wellness. If you suspect you have SIBO or are struggling with persistent digestive issues, consult with a healthcare professional or nutritional therapist to develop a personalised plan tailored to your needs.
If you’d like to schedule a free chat with me, please click here.