10 Signs Of Bacterial Overgrowth In The Small Intestine
Do you feel so bloated after a meal that you are about to burst the button in your pants? This condition becomes more and more normal. M ange people v ågner up with a flat stomach, but ending the day with being bloated and distended. Here you get 10 signs of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
All forms of abdominal swelling, even if very little, can be an indicator of inflammation in the intestines. If the swelling is accompanied by symptoms such as flatulence and / or bloating, it may be a sign that you are hypersensitive to certain foods or that you have a bacterial infection that raises the temperature in your intestines. This is known as bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, also called SIBO.
What is SIBO?
Bacterial overgrowth in the intestines occurs when the normal intestinal balance is disturbed and the intestinal bacteria begin to multiply uncontrollably. This often occurs in people who eat a diet that is high in carbohydrates, refined foods, alcohol, processed foods and more. These types of foods feed the bacteria in the gut and break down fatty acids, which provide air in the gut and make you feel bloated.
Some of the intestinal bacteria can break down bile before the body is allowed to use it, which impairs the absorption of fat and can cause diarrhea if the condition worsens.
Other bacteria in the gut can produce toxins, which damage the ‘lining’ of the small intestine and thus prevent the body from absorbing the nutrients it needs.
10 signs of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine
The symptoms of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine are very normal and can therefore be easily confused with other conditions. If you have any of the following symptoms, it is a good idea to consult your doctor.
- Intestinal air
- Flatulence
- Poor fat absorption
- Intolerance to foods such as lactose, gluten, caffeine, fructose.
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Digestive problems, such as constipation.
- Irritable bowel syndrome or chronic inflammatory bowel disease
- Chronic or long-term problems such as fatigue, diabetes, fibromyalgia, autoimmune diseases, neuromuscular disorders etc.
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially vitamin B12 deficiency
- Diarrhea
What is the cause of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine?
Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine occurs when something interferes with the digestive process, which i.a. makes sure to carry bacteria from the food to their final destination in the colon. Damage to nerves or muscles in the intestines can cause the bacteria to remain in the small intestine, which can cause SIBO. Another risk factor is diseases such as diabetes, which can affect the muscles in the intestine and thus lead to SIBO.
Other possible reasons for abnormal accumulation of bacteria in the intestine are physical obstructions in the intestine in the form of e.g. scars from surgeries or Crohn’s disease. Medicines that can change the composition of the intestinal flora, such as antibiotics, acid-blocking drugs or steroids, can also be the cause of SIBO. Last but not least, one of the main reasons for SIBO, as already mentioned, is the intake of refined foods, alcohol, carbohydrates, sugar, etc.
Can you be examined for SIBO?
You can do a breath test at home by following the instructions of your doctor. The test usually includes 12 hours of fasting and ingestion of a specified amount of sugar, after which you must breathe into a balloon every 15 minutes for 3 hours to be able to produce various exhalation samples. This test can be used to detect SIBO and other diseases, such as gluten intolerance (celiac disease) and pancreatic defects.
In hospitals and clinics, doctors can identify bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine using urine and stool samples. You should first talk to your own doctor to discuss all your symptoms.
How is bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine treated ?
One of the first recommendations in the treatment of SIBO is to reduce the intake of carbohydrates and avoid refined foods such as sugar and flour. You should also limit your alcohol intake and talk to your doctor about the options for medical treatment. Usually your doctor will prescribe antibiotics – it is important that you do not self-medicate.
