SIBO - when the intestinal flora ends up in the wrong place

Most of the bacteria in our gut flora naturally reside in the large intestine, where they help break down dietary fibers. In this process, substances important for our health are produced. The large intestine also has two protective mucus layers that prevent bacteria and toxins from penetrating the intestinal wall and entering the body.

However, when these bacteria proliferate upstream and travel to the small intestine, it leads to a condition called SIBO.

Quick overview

How does SIBO develop?

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth – occurs when bacteria that are normally confined to the large intestine begin to proliferate in the small intestine.

How does SIBO affect our body?

As the small intestine lacks the protective mucus layer that the large intestine has, bacteria and toxins can more easily irritate the intestinal wall and contribute to a condition called leaky gut.

Is there a test for SIBO?

Gutfeeling Labs also offers the Four-in-One Test, which is no invasive simple urine test.

Is there a solution for SIBO?

Managing SIBO usually involves a combination of antimicrobial agents, dietary changes, and stress management, along with strategies to improve gut motility.

Common symptoms of SIBO

Digestive symptoms

Other symptoms that may occur

How does SIBO develop?

SIBO – Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth – occurs when bacteria that are normally confined to the large intestine begin to proliferate in the small intestine. This can happen if the natural valve between the small and large intestine – the ileocecal valve – weakens or leaks. Chronic stress can be a contributing factor. Research also shows that long-term use of acid-suppressing medications can increase the risk of developing SIBO.

Since the small intestine lacks the protective mucus layers that the large intestine has, bacteria and toxins can more easily irritate the intestinal wall and contribute to a condition known as leaky gut. This, in turn, can negatively affect the immune system – especially since around 70% of the body’s immune cells are located in the mucosa of the small intestine. The result may be low-grade, chronic inflammation that affects multiple parts of the body, including the skin, muscles, and nervous system.

SIBO is therefore not just a local problem in the gut. It can impact the entire body and overall health. There is also a strong link between SIBO and IBS. Studies show that up to 80% of people with IBS also have SIBO.

How does SIBO affect our body?

As the small intestine lacks the protective mucus layer that the large intestine has, bacteria and toxins can more easily irritate the intestinal wall and contribute to a condition called leaky gut. This, in turn, can negatively affect the immune system – not least because about 70% of the body’s immune cells are found in the mucous membrane of the small intestine. The result can become a low-grade, chronic inflammation that affects several parts of the body, such as the skin, muscles and nervous system.

SIBO is not just a local problem in the gut. It can affect the whole body and our overall health. There is also a strong relationship between SIBO and IBS. Studies show that up to 80% of people with IBS also have SIBO.

Is there a home-test to detect SIBO ?

Gutfeeling Labs also offers the Four-in-One Test, which is no invasive simple urine test. It includes analysis related to SIBO, leaky gut and bacterial metabolites.

Learn more about Four-in-One Test

Is there a solution for SIBO?

Managing SIBO usually involves a combination of antimicrobial agents, dietary changes, and stress management, along with strategies to improve gut motility. One study has shown that botanical supplements with antimicrobial properties can yield good results.

We recommend GutClear® , our own plant-based supplement for SIBO and leaky gut, to help support normal gut function.

Learn more about SIBO

IBS, SIBO, and Leaky Gut: All you need to know

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a common gastrointestinal condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Many living with IBS experience bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation. Research has shown that up to 85% of people with IBS have SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).

What Is SIBO? Symptoms, Causes and the Connection to Gut Health

SIBO, or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, involves an abnormal increase in bacteria in the small intestine. Under normal circumstances, bacterial levels are considerably lower in the small intestine than in the large intestine.

What Is Leaky Gut? Symptoms, Causes and What Research Says

Leaky gut” is a commonly used term for increased intestinal permeability, meaning that the intestinal barrier allows substances to pass through differently than under normal conditions.

Candida Overgrowth in the Small Intestine (SIFO) – Everything You Need to Know

Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth (SIFO) is a condition in which fungi, most commonly Candida, grow excessively in the small intestine. It can cause symptoms similar to IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), including bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue.