Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Here’s a personal question for you: Have you been extremely bloated and gassy, experiencing diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain? While it might seem like these not-so-fun symptoms are just par for the course when you’re dealing with a chronic condition, they might also be signaling that a specific problem—something called small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (aka SIBO)—needs your attention. SIBO happens when there is an excess of bacteria in the small intestine. While bacteria are an important part of a digestive tract, SIBO can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms. First, quickie anatomy lesson: The small intestine, which connects the stomach to the large intestine, is an incredible 20 feet. (So not exactly small…maybe it should be rebranded “long”?) The entire GI tract is about 30 feet long, and bacteria and other critters hang out mostly in the large intestine, with some acting as friendly protectors, and others (acting less helpfully) contributing to inflammation. When too much bacteria move into the small intestines, they ferment all the food you eat...and that’s what triggers SIBO symptoms like bloating, excess gas, and pain. Startling stat: Up to 78% of people with IBS have SIBO. So, why do people get it? SIBO is often associated with issues that compromise the digestive system, like low stomach acid, insufficient digestive enzymes, slow motility, or antibiotics, or something anatomical, such as intestinal surgeries. Many factors may be involved, but bottom line: If you have a chronic condition (oh hi, that’s us!), you’re likely to be more susceptible to SIBO. SIBO is generally diagnosed with breath testing or by a provider’s educated guess based on your symptoms. After diagnosis, most doctors will suggest antibiotics, herbs, or dietary changes—or a combo of those. In some cases, herbal remedies have been found to be as effective as the antibiotic typically used for SIBO—plant power is real! Ok, so you suspect SIBO. What now? First, find a practitioner who can help you get a definitive diagnosis and is open to discussing all treatment options (especially if you want to avoid antibiotics). This is important, because while you can live with SIBO—and people do—it can affect your ability to digest and absorb nutrients, which can counteract your best efforts to be healthier! SIBO can also make inflammation worse, which no one needs—especially those of us with a chronic condition. Meanwhile, reach out to your WanaFam because you don’t have to deal with SIBO alone. Odds are, many in our community are coping with the same thing and stand ready to offer advice or lend an empathetic ear. And just know: If you think talking about your symptoms = TMI, that’s not something you have to worry about on Wana. We’ve all dealt with symptoms that aren’t exactly dinner conversation topics, and that’s why we’re all here. No shame, ever. Oh, and finally: We know it’s hard, but try not to stress too much. It’s advice you hear lots, but it’s especially important when you’re seeking to minimize gut problems. Less stress = happier gut!