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Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Diet
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is characterized by an excessive proliferation of bacteria in the small intestine.
Normally, the majority of bacteria are found in the large intestine, or colon. However, certain conditions or illnesses can cause bacteria in the colon to migrate up the digestive system, towards the small intestine. This can cause several digestive symptoms, like diarrhea, bloating, wind, abdominal cramps, nausea, dyspepsia, constipation and even fatigue. These non-specific symptoms mean diagnosing SIBO is far from straightforward. Especially as these resemble many of the symptoms of other gastrointestinal conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
In this article I will review the various causes of SIBO, possible treatments and share new research on the topic.
Causes of Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth
Between 4-18% of healthy people have SIBO. This percentage is up to four times higher for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. People who suffer from autoimmune diseases, like coeliac disease, also appear to experience a higher prevalence of SIBO than the general population.
It’s important to note that small intestine bacterial overgrowth isn’t an illness in itself. Rather, it’s a symptom or the result of an underlying condition. The development of SIBO is associated with several illnesses, including scleroderma, pancreatic insufficiency, chronic pancreatitis, diverticulitis, diabetes, small intestine inflammation, inflammatory bowel diseases, coeliac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, liver disease, arthritis, etc.
Most of the causes of small intestine bacterial overgrowth can be grouped into three categories:
1. Motility troubles
For example, diabetes is associated with a reduction in the intestine’s peristaltic movements. This creates the perfect environment for bacterial proliferation. Certain medication, like narcotics, and getting older can have the same effect.
2. Interferences with the small intestine’s antibacterial defense
Certain medication can influence the digestive system’s pH, like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This can encourage SIBO to develop.
3. Structural anomalies in the digestive system
Diverticulitis, tumors or strictures in the small intestine can also encourage the proliferation of bacteria.
Author
Member of the Quebec College of Dietitians (ODNQ) and Dietitians of Canada,Jef graduated from McGill University in December 2014. Recently graduated and passionate about culinary arts, Jef poses a simple, effective and practical look at daily meal planning. With this in mind, she works in conjunction with the mission of SOSCuisine...
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