What is SIBO?

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.

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.

 

The small intestine, which is the longest segment of the intestine, is responsible for absorbing the nutrients from the food we eat. Cells in the intestinal wall also regulate many endocrine (hormonal) signaling pathways, such as those involved in the experience of hunger.

Signs of SIBO

When bacteria grow uncontrollably in the small intestine, it can lead to a variety of symptoms. Some symptoms are local and directly affect the gut and digestion, while others are more systemic and can impact overall health. Here are some common signs to watch for:

  • Tender and bloated abdomen between meals
  • Diarrhea and/or constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Brain fog
  • Food sensitivities
  • Heartburn / reflux
  • Histamine intolerance
  • Inflammation (joint pain, fibromyalgia)
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Sleep disturbances

Did you know you can test for SIBO?

Gutfeeling Labs offers a new, patent-pending test for leaky gut and SIBO.
The test is completely unique on the market because it is a urine test rather than a breath test. This makes sample collection much easier and provides significantly higher sensitivity in detecting bacteria in the small intestine compared to previous methods. With the test, you will quickly receive clear answers on whether leaky gut/SIBO could be causing your symptoms, along with tailored advice and guidance based on your results.

Help in SIBO

Treatment of 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.

For those who want to know more about SIBO

Here are more in-depth facts about SIBO for those of you who want to read more, or for those of you who work therapeutically and meet people with problems that can be linked to SIBO in your profession.

Learn more about SIBO
  • Tarmfloran

IBS, leaky gut and SIBO, how are they related?

Many people suffer from stomach problems and around 15-20% of the population have a diagnosis of IBS. This number is so great that it is classified as a national disease. The diagnosis IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is given if no underlying structural cause is found. However, studies have shown that most people with IBS actually have SIBO. Something that can mean a lot to those who plan life according to their gut, since both diets, antimicrobial dietary supplements, and, medicines can be used in SIBO.

IBS kan bero på SIBO
  • Tarmfloran

Ny forskning kring kopplingen mellan tarmen och hjärnan

Många har hört av sig till oss för råd efter att en vetenskaplig artikel av finländska forskare visat att tarmbakterien Desulfovibrio kan öka mängden av ett protein som anses orsaka Parkinsons sjukdom. Eftersom ni är många som frågat om vad resultaten av den vetenskapliga artikeln kan betyda har vi summerat den till er här, och vad vi tar med oss av resultaten.

Tarmbakterie verkar kunna vara en bidragande orsak till Parkinsons sjukdom
  • Tarmfloran

Overgrowth of the Candida Fungus in the Small Intestine

Digestive issues, sugar cravings, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating? It could actually be the Candida fungus causing trouble for you. SIFO stands for Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth and involves an overgrowth of a yeast fungus called Candida, primarily in the small intestine. SIFO can create a host of problems, not only in the digestive system but also throughout the body.

Hur skiljer sig SIFO från SIBO?