Description
Abstract: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) remains poorly understood disease because the causative factors are unknown. It affects bacteria in the small intestine, and occurs when bacteria that normally grows in other parts of the gut start growing in excess in the small intestine. The excess growth of bacteria is due to lack of movement in the small intestines and slows the passage of food and waste products in the digestive tract, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This lack of movement in the small intestines can be due to many factors which include; gastric acid suppression, abdominal surgery, structural problems in and around the small intestines, diseases such as Crohn's disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome, use of narcotics, overuse of antibiotics, and in some cases age can be a factor. Signs and symptoms of SIBO can include diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, abdominal pain especially after eating, regualar feeling of fullness, gas, bloating, and weight loss. If left untreated SIBO can lead to poor absorbtion of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, vitamins deficiency, weakened bones (osteoporosis), and malabsorption.
