Have You Come Across the Term “SIBO”?
It’s not some extraterrestrial concept or obscure acronym. SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, and if you’re dealing with autoimmune diseases or gut-related issues, chances are you might have it. I suspected I had it for years, and finally decided to undergo testing this winter. Lo and behold, the results confirmed it.
The test itself can be done from the comfort of your home. It involves blowing into several balloon-like devices at intervals after consuming a rather unpleasant solution. Once the two-hour test is completed, you simply mail the containers off to a lab. Two weeks later, you receive a graphical breakdown of your small intestine’s condition.
A Primer On SIBO and Why You Should Know if You have it!
Now, why is it problematic to have an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine? Well, bacteria are meant to reside in the large intestine (colon), not the small intestine. Various factors can cause this imbalance—ranging from abnormal pancreatic or immune function to dietary changes or even food poisoning. Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, metabolic disorders, and aging can also contribute to SIBO, according to Balanced Well-Healthcare and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
If you’ve been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome previously, chances are you’re dealing with SIBO as well. But the bottom line is, when bacteria colonize the small intestine, they interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to gas and discomfort. Over time, this could result in malnutrition, regardless of how well you eat. What’s worse, these pesky critters can manipulate your cravings, making you yearn for the foods they thrive on, like sugars and starches.
SIBO comes in three types: Methane-based, Hydrogen Sulfide-based, and plain Hydrogen SIBO. Each requires a slightly different approach for resolution. Personally, I’m tackling my Hydrogen-based SIBO through a combination of herbal remedies, supplements and dietary adjustments. Additionally, I underwent a stool test to identify the specific beneficial bacteria I needed and opted for a probiotic tailored to replenish those strains.
You Don’t Have to Suffer for Years with Gut Issues Silently!
Addressing gut issues in this manner can be both costly and time-consuming. However, if you’ve been grappling with guesswork and random attempts without success, a more scientific approach might be worth considering. It’s essential to note, though, that if such testing induces significant anxiety, it could potentially exacerbate gut issues due to the gut’s hypersensitivity to stress.
Navigating complex chronic conditions requires a team of professionals. As a health educator and coach, I’d love to be part of that team for you. Feel free to reach out to me. Click on the video below to see all I can offer you in your healing journey and desire to Age Vibrantly No Matter What You are Facing.
