Gastro-Intestinal issues are on the rise!
Most people have gastro-intestinal imbalances or conditions, but do nothing about them until they are severe in nature. If you’re one of the people who frequently suffer with:
- Bloating
- Flatulence and/or belching
- Cramps
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
then you may want to pay attention.
What is SIBO?
SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) is a bacterial infection in the small intestines. Though having bacteria in the gut is both normal and good, there are many ways disruption can occur. If there is too much bacteria or if the wrong type of bacteria in wrong place, this can cause a myriad of problems and symptoms. SIBO most commonly occurs when bacteria, which is supposed to be in the large intestines, makes its way to the small intestines.
Small Intestinal Microbial Environment
The body internally keeps the bacteria in the small intestines low. There are several mechanisms that explain why the concentration of bacteria is kept low in the duodenum while high in the terminal ilium, which is located at the very end of the small intestines. These include:
- Many bacteria are destroyed in the stomach acid and small intestines through bile and enzymes.
- Intestinal peristaltic activity forcefully move the bacteria forward from the ilium to the colon.
Though these functions work well to keep the gastrointestinal system working in perfect order, they can be disrupted and work at suboptimal levels. The reasons these functions start to misfire include:
- A weak immune system
- Stress
- Low acid levels in the gut
- Leaky gut
- Irregular peristalsis due to bad eat habits, or stressful lifestyles
All these factors will increase the chances of the presence of high amounts of bacteria in the small intestines. This then causes fermentation of undigested food which leads to bloating, gas, and belching, which all ultimately leads to pain and discomfort. SIBO and the discomfort associated with it is exacerbated with the ingestion of sugars, fibers, starches, certain probiotics, and poor quality foods.
The Importance of a Healthy Gut
The gut is literally involved in almost every function of the body; everything from hormone balance to proper micronutrient levels depends on a healthy gut. I have personally seen thyroid problems, blood sugar imbalances, adrenal issues, brain fog, and immune system imbalances all healed through healing the gut alone. The gastro-intestinal system has neurology that is very complex and vast just like the brain. Letting gut issues remain unchecked can literally affect every system in your body, wreaking havoc and disrupting life as you know it. It is no secret that many major gut conditions can be avoided through a proactive model of gut healing, and this includes healing SIBO naturally.
Can SIBO Be Reversed?
SIBO can certainly be reversed with the proper protocol. I see many people trying to overcome SIBO through numerous rounds of antibiotics when they take the medical route. If they take the holistic route, I see individuals try to solve SIBO on their own through dietary changes and probiotics. Taking this route leads to more frustration because money is invested and time is spent but the results are lacking.
We work with many people experiencing gut conditions and the one thing they require is strategy. SIBO in particular requires clearing out the bacteria, healing and repairing the gut lining, re-inoculating the gut, proper diet, and digestive support. Every individual is different and requires tweaks in between in order to maximize the results. Go ahead and shoot us an email if healing SIBO naturally is on your radar and we will see if we can help you or point you in the right direction. If you are already working with us, more gut healing products can be found at here.
