There are many causes of irritable bowel syndrome. These include disturbed intestinal flora, psychological stress, food intolerances or increased sensitivity to pain in the intestine. From a naturopathic point of view, disorders in the intestinal mucosa, the intestinal barrier or digestive performance can also play a role.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the bowel. This means that no organic causes can be identified, but symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhea still occur. The symptoms are chronic or recurring and often impair quality of life.
Yes, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is curable in most cases, but requires a structured and individualized treatment concept. Successful treatment consists not only of eliminating the excessive bacteria, but also of investigating the causes and providing long-term support for intestinal function. Particularly important are the promotion of intestinal motility, the restoration of healthy intestinal flora and a balanced diet. Although relapses are possible, they can be significantly reduced through preventative measures. If the therapy is implemented consistently, the prognosis is very good.
In the case of small intestine overgrowth (SIBO), it is important to adapt the diet in a targeted manner so as not to "feed" the bacteria any further. A low-FODMAP diet, which avoids fermentable sugars that are easily metabolized by the bacteria in the small intestine, is particularly helpful. The specific carbohydrate diet (SCD) or the elemental diet can also have a supportive effect. In the long term, the diet should be individually adapted to avoid nutrient deficiencies and to stabilize the intestinal flora. It is advisable to consult an experienced nutritionist or a naturopathic doctor.
The treatment of small bowel overgrowth (SIBO) is usually carried out in several steps: First, the bacterial overgrowth is reduced with the help of antibiotics such as rifaximin or herbal remedies (e.g. oregano oil or berberine). At the same time, diet plays a key role - many patients benefit from a low-FODMAP diet or a
Small intestinal mal-colonization (SIBO) is usually diagnosed by means of a breath test. The affected person drinks a special sugar solution (usually glucose or lactulose), whereupon the concentration of hydrogen and methane in the exhaled air is measured at regular intervals. A rapid increase in these gases indicates a bacterial overgrowth. In addition, blood tests, stool examinations and imaging procedures can be carried out to rule out other causes. Early diagnosis is important in order to treat SIBO effectively.
Typical symptoms of small intestinal overgrowth (SIBO) include flatulence, a feeling of fullness after eating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation, greasy stools and food intolerances, particularly to fermentable carbohydrates. Systemic symptoms such as tiredness, concentration problems, skin problems or vitamin deficiencies (e.g. vitamin B12) can also occur. As the symptoms are often diffuse, SIBO is frequently overlooked. Anyone who suffers from chronic digestive complaints should therefore consider a check-up for SIBO.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when an abnormally high number of bacteria that normally only occur in the large intestine colonize the small intestine. These bacteria ferment carbohydrates in the upper digestive tract and produce gases such as hydrogen, methane or hydrogen sulphide. This can lead to flatulence, diarrhea, constipation and other digestive problems. SIBO is a common cause of chronic gastrointestinal complaints and is often confused with irritable bowel syndrome. Timely diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial for recovery.
Stress has a negative effect on the composition of the intestinal flora - relaxation is therefore essential.
Fiber, fermented foods and targeted probiotics help to build a healthy microbiome.
