If you’ve been dealing with bloating, gas, or unpredictable digestion, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of SIBO—or you’ve been told everything is “normal” when it doesn’t feel that way. In this blog, we walk through it simply.
The thyroid gland plays a critical role in regulating your metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. However, thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, is becoming increasingly common. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) estimates that nearly 10% of the U.S. population was affected by hypothyroidism between 2009 and 2012—and these numbers appear to be on the rise.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition that occurs when bacteria, which are normally present in the large intestine, begin to grow excessively in the small intestine. This imbalance can lead to a range of uncomfortable digestive symptoms and is often challenging to diagnose and treat effectively. Here, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, and why treatment can be particularly tricky.
As we continue the journey of finding balance within our bodies, let’s discuss what happens when bacteria from your large intestine travels into your small intestines and makes a home there. Your small intestine facilitates the digestive process and works in concert with enzymes you need to digest food. Your large intestine uses bacteria to continue the final breakdown of the foods you take in. Water and salts are absorbed from the undigested material and any waste products left over are excreted. Occasionally, the bacteria which help your large intestines work properly get displaced and end up in your small intestine. This can cause a type of dysbiosis known as Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), an often painful and very uncomfortable condition.