Why SIBO may be at the root of your digestive problems

Having the right balance of microorganisms is important because it can either help or hinder how many important systems and organs function. Dysbiosis (an imbalance between good and bad bacteria) can affect the functions of your immune, nervous, and endocrine systems. Of course, it also affects your digestive system. 

The right balance of bacteria is essential to producing Vitamin B12, folate, Vitamin K, and other nutrients. It also aids in the production of bile, which your digestive system needs to digest and absorb fats. 

A form of dysbiosis, SIBO is characterized by excess bacteria in the small intestine, which typically has minimal bacteria compared to the large intestine. This is because of the rapid flow of contents that pass through the small intestine and the presence of bile. With SIBO, this flow of food and waste products slows down. The food actually stagnates, resulting in an overgrowth of bacteria as well as the presence of bacteria not normally found in the small intestine. Excess bacteria also produce toxins that can disrupt how nutrients are absorbed.

Our patients commonly experience a loss of appetite, persistent nausea and abdominal pain, bloating and discomfort after eating, diarrhea and constipation, and unintentional weight loss. Without prompt detection and treatment, SIBO can cause serious and sometimes irreversible vitamin deficiencies, osteoporosis, kidney stones, and more complications. 

We use a “breath test.” This test often complements other assessments available at CTCIM. Surplus bacteria create hydrogen, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and other gases, which are exhaled. We can measure these gases with breath testing. If we notice a rapid rise in these gases as you breathe out, it can indicate SIBO. 

Through our range of functional medicine testing and assessments, we can help you find the specific causes or sources of your dysbiosis. You may benefit from nutritional support with botanical medicine and nutraceuticals. Sometimes, medications can help to keep the number of abnormal bacteria in check. We may also recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to support healthy digestion and control symptoms. It is essential to manage any underlying digestive conditions like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.

We combine the best that modern and traditional medicine offer and take an expansive approach to treating all conditions. Our therapies honor your body, mind, and spirit. We are thorough in everything we do; for instance, hydrogen sulfide is rarely screened at other providers’ offices. We screen for it, as it offers additional insights into your gut health. The more info, the better we can understand your needs and effectively treat you.