SIBO Myths vs. Facts: Debunking Common Misconceptions
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Misunderstandings about what SIBO is, how it’s treated, and who it affects have led to common myths and misconceptions. If you're struggling with symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or fatigue, it can be difficult to know what’s true and what’s not when it comes to SIBO.
In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most common myths about SIBO and provide you with the facts to help clear up the confusion. Let’s dive in and separate the truth from the fiction!
Myth #1: SIBO is Just Like IBS
Fact: While SIBO and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) share some overlapping symptoms, they are not the same condition. IBS is a functional disorder of the large intestine, where symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain occur without any underlying bacterial overgrowth. The root cause of IBS is typically due to gut sensitivity, motility issues, or stress-induced changes in the digestive system. SIBO, on the other hand, is a specific condition caused by an abnormal increase in bacteria in the small intestine. While many people with IBS may also have SIBO (in fact, SIBO is often misdiagnosed as IBS), the two conditions differ in core issues.
Myth #2: SIBO Only Causes Digestive Symptoms
Fact: While digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation are the most common signs of SIBO, the condition can have a far-reaching impact on your overall health. SIBO can cause malabsorption of nutrients, leading to vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron), weight loss, and fatigue.
Additionally, SIBO has been linked to other health issues, such as autoimmune conditions, skin problems like acne or eczema, and even mental health symptoms like anxiety or brain fog. This is due to the gut-brain connection—gut dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria) can influence the nervous system and contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, or difficulty concentrating, therefore, SIBO isn’t just a digestive issue—it’s a condition that can affect your entire body.
Myth #3: SIBO Can Be Cured with Antibiotics Alone
Fact: Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat SIBO by reducing the bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. However, antibiotics alone are not a cure for SIBO, and they are typically only effective at reducing symptoms temporarily.
To truly heal from SIBO and prevent recurrence, treatment must go beyond just antibiotics. A comprehensive treatment plan may involve:
Dietary changes: A Low FODMAP diet, Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD), or Elemental Diet are often recommended to starve the bacteria and allow the small intestine to heal.
Prokinetics: Medications or natural supplements that promote healthy gut motility and reduce bacteria becoming stagnant in the gut.
Gut healing of the intestinal lining: Using probiotics (carefully chosen strains) and supplements like L-glutamine or collagen to restore gut integrity.
If you’ve been treated with antibiotics but haven’t addressed the underlying causes of SIBO, such as poor motility or gut inflammation, symptoms may come back.
Myth #4: Probiotics Are Always Helpful for SIBO
Fact: Probiotics are often recommended for gut health, but when it comes to SIBO, the situation is more complicated. In some cases, probiotics can actually worsen SIBO symptoms. Since SIBO is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, introducing more bacteria (even beneficial ones) could potentially contribute to more fermentation and bloating.
However, certain strains of probiotics may be beneficial for some people, especially those with an impaired gut microbiome. It’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider to identify the right probiotic strain that may help, rather than just taking any over-the-counter supplement.
Overall, there are many myths about SIBO that can make it confusing for people who are suffering from symptoms. Whether you're dealing with digestive discomfort or have been struggling to find a solution to your gut health issues, it’s important to separate fact from fiction.
SIBO is treatable, but it requires a multi-faceted approach that includes diet changes, proper testing, and often, a combination of medication, gut-healing strategies, and lifestyle adjustments. If you suspect you have SIBO or have been diagnosed but are confused by all the information out there, the best step is to consult with a knowledgeable healthcare professional who can guide you on your healing journey.
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Published: January 27th, 2025
This blog post was written by Amanda Sikkema, a dietitian at Katie Chapmon Nutrition. Amanda works with clients virtually and is accepting new clients.
