In recent years, there’s been more and more talk about SIBO, but many people still don’t know what it means or how it can influence their well-being. If you’ve been experiencing abdominal bloating, frequent gas, or heavy digestion lately, you might want to understand what’s behind these discomforts. SIBO is a more common intestinal disorder than it seems, and learning about it can help you improve your diet and quality of life.
Over the past few years, science has made great strides in studying the gut microbiome. It has been discovered that the balance of bacteria living in our intestines plays a key role in overall health. When that balance is disrupted, various problems can arise—and one of them is SIBO.
WHAT IS SIBO
The acronym SIBO comes from Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, which means “bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.” Under normal conditions, most beneficial bacteria live in the large intestine, while the small intestine contains a much smaller amount.
In SIBO, a shift occurs: those bacteria that should remain in the large intestine multiply in the small intestine. This imbalance causes abnormal fermentation during digestion, producing gas, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
CAUSES OF SIBO
The causes of SIBO can vary. Some of the most common include alterations in intestinal motility (that is, the movement that pushes food through the digestive tract), prolonged use of antibiotics, previous intestinal diseases, or even chronic stress.
There are also anatomical factors—such as intestinal adhesions or prior surgeries—that can promote bacterial accumulation in areas where they normally shouldn’t be. In some cases, SIBO appears as a consequence of other digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS
SIBO symptoms can be mistaken for other digestive disorders, so it’s not always easy to diagnose. The most common include bloating after meals, excessive gas, early satiety, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both.
Additionally, SIBO can affect nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies in vitamins (such as B12) or essential minerals. In some cases, people also experience fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained weight loss.
TREATMENT OF SIBO
SIBO treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. It usually involves three main pillars: specific antibiotics or antimicrobials, dietary changes, and restoration of the gut microbiota.
In many cases, a low-FODMAP diet (an acronym for certain types of fermentable carbohydrates) is recommended to reduce gas production and relieve symptoms. However, this plan should be personalized and supervised by a nutritionist or a doctor specialized in digestive health.
DIET AND HEALTHY HABITS
Beyond medical treatment, adopting a balanced diet and healthy habits can make a big difference in the progression of SIBO. Eating slowly, avoiding excessive ultra-processed foods, maintaining good hydration, and respecting meal schedules are measures that help improve digestive function.
Moderate exercise and stress management are also important allies. Chronic stress affects intestinal motility and can worsen SIBO, so incorporating relaxation routines, proper rest, and regular physical activity supports recovery.
RESTORING GUT BALANCE
One of the goals of SIBO treatment is to restore the balance of the gut microbiome. To achieve this, once bacterial overgrowth is under control, probiotics and prebiotics are usually recommended. These help repopulate the intestine with beneficial bacteria and improve digestion.
However, every person is different, and what works for one may not work for another. That’s why guidance from a digestive or nutrition specialist is essential for addressing SIBO effectively and sustainably.
WHEN TO CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL
If you experience frequent or persistent digestive symptoms, don’t ignore them or simply attribute them to “nerves” or “heavy meals.” Consulting a doctor or nutritionist is crucial to rule out SIBO or other intestinal issues. An accurate diagnosis prevents unnecessary treatments and enables faster recovery.
Moreover, understanding how your digestive system works and how it relates to your diet can help you prevent future relapses and take better care of your overall well-being.
UNDERSTANDING SIBO TO TAKE BETTER CARE OF YOURSELF
Understanding what SIBO is and how it manifests is a first step toward better gut health. It’s not about following strict diets or seeking quick fixes, but about adopting a more mindful approach to what we eat, how we eat, and how our body responds.
Information, accompanied by proper medical care, is the best tool for maintaining a healthy gut and a more balanced life. Remembering that digestive well-being is an essential part of our physical and emotional health is key to taking care of ourselves in a holistic way.