SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. It’s a condition where too many bacteria migrate from our large intestine and overgrow in our small intestine. Typically, our small intestine contains few bacteria, particularly in the early part where our own critical digestion takes place. But if you are SIBO positive, too many bacteria are growing where they do not belong, and you will experience varied symptoms as a result.

SIBO occurs when the bacteria in our gut get out of balance and overgrow. I often say, “Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.” How do we get too much of some bacteria over others? This can manifest in several different ways, and often occurs in those eating a diet high in sugar, alcohol and refined carbohydrates. Certain strains of bacteria feed off of refined carbohydrates and break them down into short-chain fatty acids, creating gas and causing bloating. Another strain of bacteria can break down bile salts before your body has a chance to use them. Bile salts are crucial for the breakdown of fats; without them, the end result is fat malabsorption or diarrhea.

Finally, a third type of bacteria can produce toxins that damage the lining of the small intestine. This prevents your body from absorbing the nutrients you need, much like what we see with a leaky gut.

Call Now +61 (0)448810086

AREAS WE SERVICE

• Eastern Suburbs Melbourne
• Bayside Suburbs
• Balwyn
• Box Hill
• Surrey Hills
• Kew
• Mont Albert
• Camberwell
• Hawthorn
• Ashburton
• Burwood
• Heidelberg
• Doncaster
• Templestowe
• Blackburn
• Richmond