Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).

SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is defined as an increase in the number of bacteria and/or changes in the types of bacteria present in the small bowel. These pathogenic bacteria can lead to poor digestion and absorption as well as nutritional deficiencies, increased inflammation, food sensitivities and other non-digestive symptoms such as body aches, chronic fatigue and autoimmune illnesses.

Potential Signs of SIBO

Abdominal bloating (gas) – flatulence, belching
Abdominal pain or cramping
Diarrhea, constipation or both
Heartburn and/or nausea
Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut or inflammatory bowel disease
Food intolerances such as: gluten, casein, lactose, fructose and more
Frequent headaches, joint pain, or fibromyalgia
Chronic illness such as: chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, neuromuscular disorders and autoimmune diseases
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies such as: vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium and others
Fat malabsorption

Test for SIBO

Lactulose Breath Testing is the gold standard test to diagnose SIBO. In this 3-hour test conducted in our office, a non-absorbable sugar solution (lactulose) is swallowed. Then the hydrogen and methane gases are measured in the breath. Gas levels rise as the sugar solution passes through the intestine resulting from fermentation of the sugar by bacteria. If the gas levels rise quickly and to an abnormal level, a diagnosis of SIBO can be made and treated.

Test preparation includes a special diet the day prior and a 12-hour fast the night prior to testing.

Treating SIBO

Similar to conventional treatment that uses pharmaceutical antibiotics, our research is focused on using an antimicrobial herbal formula to eradicate the bacterial overgrowth. The Revolution Health Medical Center holistic treatment approach also includes a clinically researched eating plan to reduce the food sources for the unhealthy gut bacteria and to heal and restore balance to the digestive system.