Bacteria causing bloating and gas. Bacterial Overgrowth in the Small Intestine: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

20.10.202215.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the symptoms of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. How is SIBO diagnosed and treated. What dietary changes can help manage SIBO symptoms. What are the risk factors for developing SIBO. How does SIBO relate to other digestive disorders.

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Understanding Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the bacterial population within the small intestine. While bacteria are essential for our digestive system, particularly in the large intestine, the small intestine typically maintains a relatively low bacterial count. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to a range of digestive issues and complications.

SIBO occurs when the natural mechanisms that control bacterial growth in the small intestine fail. These mechanisms include gastric acid secretion and the forward movement of food through the digestive tract. When these processes are compromised, bacteria can multiply excessively, leading to SIBO.

The Connection Between SIBO and IBS

Interestingly, SIBO appears to have a strong connection with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Research has shown that individuals diagnosed with IBS are more likely to develop SIBO compared to the general population. However, it’s important to note that not all IBS patients test positive for SIBO, indicating a complex relationship between these two conditions.

Recognizing the Symptoms of SIBO

The symptoms of SIBO can vary significantly from person to person, depending on the severity of the bacterial overgrowth and the presence of any coexisting conditions. However, some common symptoms include:

Bloating
Diarrhea
Constipation
Unexplained vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12

Do the symptoms of SIBO differ based on the type of bacteria present? Indeed, research suggests that the type of microbe causing the overgrowth can influence the symptoms experienced. Hydrogen-producing bacteria are more commonly associated with diarrhea, while methane-producing species tend to cause constipation.

Unraveling the Causes of SIBO

The exact causes of SIBO are not always clear, but researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to its development:

Low Motility

Normally, the intestines push food and bacteria through the digestive tract, preventing bacterial accumulation in the small intestine. However, when motility is reduced, this process slows down, allowing food to ferment in the small intestine and bacteria to multiply.

Dysbiosis

Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the gut microbiome, characterized by an overgrowth of harmful microbes or a lack of beneficial species. Studies have shown that individuals with IBS often have less diverse gut microbiomes, fewer beneficial bacteria, and higher amounts of methane-producing species, which can slow down motility.

Hypochlorhydria

This condition refers to low levels of stomach acid. Insufficient stomach acid may allow bacteria to migrate further up the digestive tract than usual, as the environment is not acidic enough to kill them. People taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), those with autoimmune gastritis, or individuals who have undergone a gastrectomy may be at increased risk of hypochlorhydria and, consequently, SIBO.

Structural Differences

Sometimes, SIBO can occur due to structural differences in the digestive tract. These may include small bowel diverticulosis, fistulas, or a shortened colon. A 2018 study found that individuals who have undergone a colectomy are at a higher risk of developing SIBO.

Alcohol Abuse

Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the microbiome, leading to dysbiosis, intestinal wall damage, and inflammation, all of which can contribute to the development of SIBO.

Identifying Risk Factors for SIBO

Certain underlying conditions can increase an individual’s risk of developing SIBO. These include:

Hypothyroidism
Diabetes
Parkinson’s disease
Short bowel syndrome
Amyloidosis
Systemic sclerosis
Chronic kidney failure

Is age a factor in developing SIBO? Yes, SIBO is more common in older adults, possibly due to slower digestive motility. Interestingly, there is also a higher prevalence among females, although the reasons for this gender disparity remain unclear.

A small 2017 study found that individuals with obesity were 11 times more likely to have SIBO than those without obesity. However, the reasons for this association are not fully understood, as the risk was higher in participants who had healthy digestive motility and pH levels. Further research is needed to elucidate this connection.

Diagnosing SIBO: The Path to Proper Treatment

Diagnosing SIBO involves a comprehensive approach that includes assessing symptoms, reviewing medical history, and conducting specific tests. Here’s how healthcare professionals typically diagnose SIBO:

Initial Assessment

A doctor will begin by asking about a person’s symptoms and medical history. They may perform a physical examination, feeling the abdomen for signs of excess gas or bloating. If SIBO is suspected based on this initial assessment, further testing will be recommended.

Breath Testing

One of the primary diagnostic tools for SIBO is the lactulose breath test. This test measures the concentration of hydrogen and methane in a person’s breath. How does the lactulose breath test work? The process involves the following steps:

The patient fasts for 24 hours before the test.
They drink a sugary solution containing lactulose.
Breath samples are collected at regular intervals over several hours.
The samples are analyzed for hydrogen and methane levels.

The results of this test can confirm a SIBO diagnosis and reveal the extent of the overgrowth. Additionally, it can indicate whether the overgrowth consists mainly of hydrogen- or methane-producing microbes, which can help guide treatment decisions.

Additional Diagnostic Methods

While the lactulose breath test is commonly used, other diagnostic methods may include:

Glucose breath test: Similar to the lactulose test but using glucose as the substrate
Small intestine aspirate and fluid culture: A more invasive procedure that directly samples intestinal fluid
Urine organic acid test: Measures by-products of bacterial metabolism in urine

Treating SIBO: A Multi-Faceted Approach

The treatment of SIBO typically involves a combination of approaches aimed at reducing bacterial overgrowth, addressing underlying causes, and managing symptoms. The main treatment strategies include:

Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are often the first-line treatment for SIBO. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic is rifaximin, which is minimally absorbed and primarily acts in the intestine. Other antibiotics may be used depending on the type of bacterial overgrowth and individual patient factors.

Dietary Modifications

Dietary changes play a crucial role in managing SIBO symptoms and preventing recurrence. What dietary approaches are effective for SIBO? Several diets have shown promise:

Low FODMAP diet: Restricts fermentable carbohydrates that can feed bacteria
Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD): Eliminates complex carbohydrates and most sugars
Elemental Diet: Provides nutrients in pre-digested form, starving bacteria of food sources

It’s important to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian when implementing these diets, as they can be restrictive and may lead to nutritional deficiencies if not properly managed.

Prokinetics

Prokinetic agents can help improve intestinal motility, reducing the risk of bacterial overgrowth. These medications may be particularly useful for individuals with SIBO associated with motility disorders.

Addressing Underlying Conditions

Treating any underlying conditions that may be contributing to SIBO is essential for long-term management. This may involve managing conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, or structural abnormalities of the digestive tract.

The Role of Probiotics in SIBO Management

The use of probiotics in SIBO treatment remains a topic of debate among healthcare professionals. While probiotics can potentially help restore balance to the gut microbiome, there’s concern that introducing additional bacteria into an already overgrown environment could exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.

How should probiotics be used in SIBO treatment? If probiotics are considered, it’s generally recommended to:

Start with a low dose and gradually increase
Choose strains that have been studied for SIBO or related conditions
Monitor symptoms closely and discontinue if there’s any worsening

As with all aspects of SIBO treatment, the use of probiotics should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for each individual.

Preventing SIBO Recurrence: Long-Term Strategies

SIBO has a high recurrence rate, with some studies suggesting that up to 44% of patients experience a relapse within 9 months of treatment. Therefore, implementing strategies to prevent recurrence is crucial for long-term management. These strategies may include:

Ongoing Dietary Management

Continuing to follow a diet that supports gut health and minimizes bacterial overgrowth can help prevent SIBO recurrence. This may involve long-term adherence to a modified diet or cyclical dietary interventions.

Regular Motility Support

For individuals with underlying motility issues, ongoing use of prokinetics or other motility-supporting interventions may be necessary to prevent bacterial overgrowth.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can negatively impact gut function and motility. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise may help maintain gut health and reduce the risk of SIBO recurrence.

Periodic Testing

Regular follow-up testing, such as breath tests, can help detect early signs of bacterial overgrowth, allowing for prompt intervention before symptoms become severe.

Can lifestyle modifications help prevent SIBO recurrence? Indeed, several lifestyle changes may be beneficial:

Avoiding late-night eating
Practicing mindful eating and proper chewing
Limiting alcohol consumption
Staying hydrated
Getting regular physical activity

The Future of SIBO Research and Treatment

As our understanding of the gut microbiome and its role in health continues to evolve, so too does our approach to diagnosing and treating SIBO. Emerging areas of research include:

Microbiome Mapping

Advanced techniques for mapping the gut microbiome may lead to more precise diagnoses and personalized treatment approaches for SIBO.

Novel Antimicrobial Approaches

Research into bacteriophages and other targeted antimicrobial therapies may provide alternatives to traditional antibiotics, potentially reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance and side effects.

Gut-Brain Axis Interventions

Given the close relationship between gut health and mental health, interventions targeting the gut-brain axis may offer new avenues for managing SIBO and related conditions.

What role might artificial intelligence play in SIBO management? AI could potentially revolutionize SIBO care by:

Analyzing complex microbiome data to identify patterns and predict treatment outcomes
Developing personalized dietary recommendations based on individual microbiome profiles
Monitoring symptoms and biomarkers to detect early signs of recurrence

As research in these areas progresses, it’s likely that our approach to managing SIBO will become increasingly sophisticated and personalized, offering hope for improved outcomes for those affected by this challenging condition.

Symptoms, causes, treatment, and diet

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when large numbers of bacteria colonize the small intestine. It can cause bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. Treatment options include antibiotics, fecal transplant, and dietary changes.

Bacteria are essential to the digestive system, in the form of the gut microbiome. This is mostly present in the large intestine, but the small intestine does not contain many bacteria.

Gastric secretions and the forward movement of food through the digestive system prevent too many bacteria from growing in the small intestine. However, if these functions do not work effectively, bacteria can multiply.

The small intestine is not able to handle high numbers of bacteria. When a person eats, these bacteria begin to ferment the food. In some people, this causes symptoms.

SIBO appears to be related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). People with IBS are more likely to have SIBO than the rest of the population. However, not everyone with an IBS diagnosis tests positive for SIBO.

In this article, we discuss the symptoms, risk factors, and complications of SIBO. We also look at the best diets to relieve the symptoms.

The symptoms of SIBO can vary from person to person, depending on how mild or severe the overgrowth of bacteria is and whether someone has any coexisting conditions.

However, the symptoms may include:

bloating
diarrhea
constipation
unexplained vitamin deficiencies, especially a vitamin B12 deficiency

The type of microbe that is overgrowing may also determine the symptoms. Research suggests that hydrogen-producing bacteria are more associated with diarrhea, while methane-producing species are more associated with constipation.

Doctors are not always sure what causes SIBO. So far, researchers have identified the following factors that may contribute to SIBO:

Low motility: Usually, the intestines push food and bacteria through the digestive tract, which prevents too much bacteria from accumulating in the small intestine. However, if someone has low motility, this mechanism slows down, allowing food to ferment in the small intestine.
Dysbiosis: Dysbiosis is when a person’s microbiome becomes imbalanced, containing too many harmful species of microbes or not enough beneficial species. Research into how different species of microorganisms influence digestion is still ongoing, but previous studies suggest that people with IBS often have less diversity, fewer beneficial species, and higher amounts of methane-producing species in their microbiome, which can slow motility.
Hypochlorhydria: This term describes low levels of stomach acid. When someone does not have sufficient stomach acid, it may be possible for bacteria to migrate further up the digestive tract than usual, as the environment is not acidic enough to kill them. Researchers believe that people who take proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), have autoimmune gastritis, or have undergone a gastrectomy have an increased risk of hypochlorhydria and SIBO. However, there is a lack of conclusive evidence on this, and low motility may be a more important risk factor.
Structural differences: Sometimes, SIBO occurs because a person has structural differences in the digestive tract. Examples include small bowel diverticulosis, fistulas, and a shortened colon. According to a 2018 study, people who have undergone a colectomy are more at risk of developing SIBO.
Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the microbiome, leading to dysbiosis, damage to the intestinal walls, and inflammation.

People with certain underlying conditions are more likely than other people to get SIBO. These people include those with:

hypothyroidism
diabetes
Parkinson’s disease
short bowel syndrome
amyloidosis
systemic sclerosis
chronic kidney failure

SIBO is also more common in older adults, possibly due to slower digestive motility. There is a higher prevalence among females, too, but the reasons for this are unclear.

A small 2017 study found that people with obesity were 11 times more likely to have SIBO than those without obesity. It is unclear why this was the case, as the risk was higher in participants who had healthy digestive motility and pH levels. More research is necessary to understand the link.

A doctor will diagnose SIBO by asking about a person’s symptoms and medical history. They may feel the abdomen for signs of excess gas or bloating. If they suspect SIBO, they will recommend testing.

Breath testing

A lactulose breath test measures the concentration of hydrogen and methane in a person’s breath. The results of this test can confirm a SIBO diagnosis and reveal the extent of the overgrowth. They also show whether the overgrowth consists mainly of hydrogen- or methane-producing microbes.

A person has to fast for 24 hours before the test. They then drink a sugary solution containing lactulose, which is a sugar that only gut bacteria can break down.

When bacteria break the sugar down, they produce gases, which enter the bloodstream and travel to the lungs. A breath test measures these gases as a person exhales.

Glucose vs. lactulose breath testing

Some doctors perform glucose breath testing instead of lactulose breath testing. Some scientists have criticized this method, as the body can absorb glucose quickly, which means that it might not reach the area of overgrowth.

However, others argue that this rapid absorption can be an advantage, as it makes it less likely that the sugar will reach the colon, where it would generate a false positive result by feeding a large number of bacteria there.

Small bowel aspirate and culture

This is the gold standard for SIBO testing, but it is a more invasive test. Small bowel aspirate tests involve a doctor performing an endoscopy, which means inserting a small, thin camera through the mouth and down into the stomach.

When the device reaches the duodenum, which is where the stomach joins up with the small intestine, doctors use the endoscope to take a tissue sample. They then send the sample to a laboratory, which analyzes the bacteria present.

It is worth noting that with small bowel aspirate testing, as well as breath testing, there is no universally accepted threshold for what constitutes a positive SIBO result. This makes diagnosis more difficult for those who have less conclusive test results.

Other tests

The existing tests for SIBO are not always precise, so a doctor may recommend other tests to get a better picture of someone’s digestive health. These could include:

blood tests to detect markers of autoimmunity or inflammation
a mobility test to determine whether someone has any structural problems in the small intestine
an intestinal permeability test, which assesses whether the intestinal lining is “leaky“
stool tests to analyze the gut microbiome

As SIBO can occur for complex reasons, it can be difficult to treat. Various treatment options are available, including antibiotics, fecal microbiota transplants, and dietary changes.

Antibiotics

This is the main treatment for SIBO. Doctors may use one type of antibiotic or a combination to remove the overgrowth.

A popular option is rifaximin (Xifaxan). Previous studies suggest that this antibiotic works best for people with hydrogen-dominant overgrowths. Neomycin, or a combination of rifaximin and neomycin, may be better for those with methane-dominant SIBO. However, research into the best ways of treating SIBO is still ongoing.

Recurrence rates after SIBO treatment are relatively high. For this reason, alongside taking antibiotics, it is essential to address the underlying cause of the SIBO to reduce the risk of the overgrowth coming back.

Depending on the root cause, this may mean taking medications to speed up motility, stopping PPI treatment, or treating other conditions that might be contributing.

Probiotics and fecal microbiota transplants

The role of probiotics in SIBO treatment is controversial. While some studies have shown that specific species can improve motility and reduce hydrogen in the breath, others have shown that probiotics may cause SIBO.

If a person has low motility and takes probiotics, it is possible that they may make an overgrowth more likely or worsen an existing one. The results can vary from person to person.

A fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is a fairly new treatment that involves a doctor transplanting a donor’s gut flora into a patient via the rectum. Again, research has produced mixed results on using this procedure as a treatment for SIBO. Some case studies have noted that FMT seems to cause SIBO. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved this treatment.

Diets cannot cure SIBO, but they can lessen the symptoms. What works can vary from person to person, but a popular option is the low FODMAP diet.

The low FODMAP diet limits the intake of fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are substances that the human body does not break down, which means that bacteria can feed on them. Limiting high FODMAP foods may reduce gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

Both the type and amount of foods a person eats are important in the low FODMAP diet. As it is fairly complex and can involve major dietary changes, it is best to work with a dietitian to implement it. A professional can ensure that a person gets all the nutrients they need.

Learn more about the low FODMAP diet.

In cases where SIBO is severe or not well-controlled, a person may have significant diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms can lead to complications, such as:

nutritional deficiencies
unintentional weight loss
dehydration

These complications can affect many aspects of health, including a person’s energy levels, hormones, and mental health. Additionally, living with SIBO can be challenging, which may cause stress, anxiety, and low mood.

Learn more about chronic illness and depression.

It is not always possible to prevent SIBO, but people can take steps to look after their gut health. These include:

Eating a nutritious and varied diet: Eating a wide variety of foods can help increase gut flora diversity, which may reduce the chances of dysbiosis. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are especially beneficial.
Stopping smoking: Cigarettes and other products that contain nicotine can change the composition of a person’s gut flora. This may play a role in dysbiosis.
Taking prokinetics: Prokinetics are a type of drug that speeds up digestive motility. They may reduce the risk of SIBO in people with an increased risk of developing it, such as those who have underlying conditions or take PPIs. A 2018 study found that people who took prokinetics and PPIs together were less likely to receive a SIBO diagnosis that those who took PPIs alone.
Treating hypochlorhydria: If a person has low stomach acid, addressing this issue may reduce the risk of SIBO, although there is a need for more studies to confirm this link. How a doctor treats hypochlorhydria will depend on the cause.
Managing other conditions: If a person has conditions that are associated with SIBO, such as hypothyroidism or diabetes, then effectively managing these conditions may reduce the impact they have on the digestive system.

Here are some answers to questions people often ask about SIBO.

What is SIBO poop like?

Stools may be watery, fatty, and foul-smelling. Fatty stools tend to float on water.

How do you fix SIBO?

Treatment is usually with antibiotics. Around 45% of people find SIBO returns after a full course of treatment. If this happens within 3 months, the doctor will prescribe a second course of antibiotics. If it returns at a later date, they may give antibiotics or they may look for other possible causes.

What are the symptoms of SIBO?

Symptoms typically include abdominal discomfort, bloating and flatulence, watery diarrhea, and fatty stools. Over time, weight loss and vitamin deficiencies can result.

What happens if you do not treat SIBO?

Complications of SIBO include weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Eventually, it can lead to intestinal failure, where the gut no longer functions effectively.

Where is SIBO pain located?

SIBO causes pain in the abdomen.

SIBO occurs when bacteria from the large intestine migrate into the small intestine. It can cause symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Doctors can diagnose SIBO by carrying out a lactulose breath test or a small bowel aspirate and culture test.

The treatment for SIBO usually involves taking one or more antibiotics to remove the overgrowth of bacteria. The effectiveness of other treatments, such as probiotics, is less clear. Newer options, such as FMT, are not fully understood and may carry risks.

People should speak with a gastroenterologist who knows about SIBO and related digestive disorders if they are experiencing persistent symptoms.