SIBO: Understanding Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and How to Find Relief
- staciaaaron
- Sep 16
- 4 min read
Stacia Aaron | Frisco, TX
Digestive health is the cornerstone of overall wellness, yet many women live with chronic bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel habits without clear answers. One condition that often flies under the radar is Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). SIBO is increasingly recognized as a common underlying cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive challenges.
At our women’s health clinic in Frisco, TX, we help patients uncover the root causes of persistent digestive symptoms—including SIBO—and guide them toward long-term relief and healing.
What Is SIBO?
SIBO occurs when bacteria that normally live in the large intestine overgrow into the small intestine, where they don’t belong in high numbers. The small intestine is designed primarily for nutrient absorption, and excessive bacteria interfere with this process. The result is digestive discomfort, nutrient deficiencies, and sometimes systemic symptoms.
These bacteria ferment carbohydrates and fibers in food, producing excessive gas that leads to bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements.
Symptoms of SIBO
SIBO symptoms often mimic other digestive disorders, which is why it’s frequently misdiagnosed. Common symptoms include:
Bloating, especially after meals
Excessive gas or belching
Abdominal pain or cramping
Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or “brain fog”
Nutrient deficiencies (especially vitamins B12, A, D, E, and K)
Food intolerances, particularly to high-carbohydrate or high-fiber foods
Because these symptoms overlap with conditions like IBS, celiac disease, and lactose intolerance, many women suffer for years before getting the right diagnosis.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of SIBO:
Structural issues in the digestive tract – Such as adhesions from abdominal surgeries or diverticulosis
Impaired gut motility – Conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, or connective tissue disorders can slow digestion
Low stomach acid – Reduces the body’s ability to kill bacteria before they reach the small intestine
Chronic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) – Long-term use of acid-reducing medications increases risk
Ileocecal valve dysfunction – This valve separates the small and large intestines; when it doesn’t function properly, bacteria can migrate upward
Food poisoning or gastrointestinal infections – These can disrupt normal gut motility and bacterial balance
SIBO and IBS: The Overlap
Research suggests that up to 60–80% of people diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may actually have SIBO as the underlying cause. Since the symptoms are nearly identical, breath testing for SIBO is often recommended for those with chronic IBS-like symptoms that don’t improve with standard treatment.
How Is SIBO Diagnosed?
The most common test for SIBO is a breath test. After drinking a sugar solution (usually lactulose or glucose), a series of breath samples are collected over several hours to measure hydrogen and methane gas levels. Elevated gas levels suggest bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
Other tests may include:
Blood tests to check for nutrient deficiencies
Stool tests to assess overall gut health
Imaging studies in cases where structural issues are suspected
Treatment Options for SIBO
Managing SIBO involves reducing bacterial overgrowth, addressing the root cause, and restoring a healthy gut environment.
1. Antibiotic Therapy
Rifaximin is the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for SIBO. In cases of methane-dominant SIBO, rifaximin may be combined with neomycin. While antibiotics can reduce bacterial levels, recurrence is common if underlying issues are not addressed.
2. Herbal Antimicrobials
Some patients prefer or respond better to herbal therapies such as oregano oil, berberine, or garlic extract. Studies suggest these can be as effective as antibiotics for certain individuals.
3. Dietary Approaches
Low FODMAP diet – Temporarily restricts fermentable carbohydrates that bacteria feed on
Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) or Elemental Diet – In more severe cases, specialized diets may be used to “starve out” bacteria
Dietary therapy is usually combined with medical treatment for best results.
4. Prokinetics
Medications or natural supplements that improve gut motility (such as low-dose erythromycin or ginger) can help prevent recurrence by keeping bacteria from stagnating in the small intestine.
5. Addressing Underlying Conditions
Long-term success requires identifying and treating contributing factors—whether that’s hypothyroidism, structural issues, or chronic acid suppression therapy.
Living with SIBO
Because SIBO often recurs, ongoing management is important. Many patients benefit from periodic follow-up testing, dietary adjustments, and supportive therapies to keep symptoms under control. Restoring balance in the gut microbiome can also improve overall energy, mental clarity, and nutrient absorption.
Living with SIBO can be frustrating, but with the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, many people find lasting relief.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve been struggling with persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort, or unexplained digestive issues, it’s time to take the next step. Many women are told their symptoms are “just IBS,” when in fact SIBO may be the root cause. Getting tested and starting a tailored treatment plan can make a world of difference.
At our women’s health clinic in Frisco, TX, we provide comprehensive evaluations for digestive health concerns, including SIBO. We combine advanced testing, evidence-based treatment, and whole-person care to help you restore balance and feel like yourself again.
Schedule a Discovery Call Today
Digestive health is key to your overall well-being, and you don’t have to live with chronic discomfort. If you suspect you may have SIBO or are tired of living with unexplained digestive symptoms, we can help.
Schedule a discovery call with our women’s health experts in Frisco, TX today—and take the first step toward understanding your gut health, finding real answers, and creating a personalized plan for relief.
References:
Pimentel, M., et al. (2020). ACG Clinical Guideline: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 115(2), 165–178.
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). https://www.mayoclinic.org
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2022). Symptoms & Causes of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. https://www.niddk.nih.gov
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). https://my.clevelandclinic.org
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