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Discover the Symptoms of Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth

SIBO stands for Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth and is the leading cause of IBS!

To put it simply, SIBO is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. These bacteria normally live in the large intestine (colon) where they improve our immune function, reduce inflammation & benefit digestion. The problem is when these “good bugs” overgrow in the wrong spot. Overgrown bacteria in the small intestine produce gases that can lead to digestive symptoms including those listed below. For those who suffer from SIBO, these symptoms can be debilitating.

Other diseases or conditions that are associated with SIBO

Weight loss/weight gain
Rosacea
Eczema
Brain fog
Fatigue
Food sensitivities
Nutrient deficiencies (iron, Vitamins B12, A & D)
Headaches
Joint & Body Pain
Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases
Past history of food poisoning & travellers diarrhea

What are the Symptoms of SIBO?


  • Bloating, gas and burping after meals
  • Diarrhea and/or constipation.
  • Abdominal pain/ cramping
  • Acid reflux / heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Never fully recovered from an episode of food poisoning
  • Never fully recovered from traveler’s diarrhea
  • Food sensitivities leading to brain fog and fatigue
  • Digestive symptoms are worse with high fiber foods and/or probiotics
  • Digestive symptoms seem to improve after antibiotic use

Why does SIBO Occur?

Some of the causes of SIBO that we help to identify & correct are:


  • Use of heartburn medications
  • Use of antibiotics
  • Chronic constipation
  • Low stomach acid
  • Traveller’s diarrhea
  • Food poisoning
  • Poor eating habits – especially frequent grazing and snacking

Did You Know?

If you get food poisoning, you have a 1/10 chance of developing IBS and for women it’s a 1/5 chance!

While there is no single cause of SIBO, ultimately, it stems from a dysfunctional Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) in the small intestine. This often occurs after an episode of food poisoning, traveler’s diarrhea, or after taking certain medications. When working properly, the MMC uses smooth muscle contractions to push food waste and bacteria from the small intestine to the large intestine where it is properly processed.

These smooth muscle contractions usually occur every 3-4 hours in healthy individuals, ensuring that the small intestine doesn’t allow an environment for bacterial over-colonization. When these smooth muscles aren’t working effectively, bacteria can start to over-colonize the small intestine, where they produce hydrogen, methane, and/or hydrogen sulfide gas leading to the symptoms of SIBO.

How Do You Know if You Have SIBO?


If you suspect you have SIBO, a simple breath test can detect the gasses that are produced by the bacteria.


IBS & SIBO Program
Whole Medicine Wellness Centre
525 March Road
Kanata ON
K2K 2M5
1-613-624-5000