Therapeutics 1 - SIBO

Question 1

Q: What does SIBO stand for?

Answer 1

A: SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth.

Question 2

Q: What is SIBO?

Answer 2

A: SIBO refers to an abnormal overpopulation of bacteria in the small intestine, which can lead to various digestive issues.

Question 3

Q: Why is SIBO often misdiagnosed as IBS?

Answer 3

A: SIBO shares many symptoms with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), making it difficult to distinguish between the two.

Question 4

Q: What gases are produced by bacteria during carbohydrate fermentation in SIBO?

Answer 4

A: Bacteria produce hydrogen and methane gases when they ferment carbohydrates.

Question 5

Q: What are common symptoms of SIBO?

Answer 5

A: Symptoms include bloating, belching, flatulence, cognitive issues (brain fog), loss of appetite, and altered bowel movements (constipation or diarrhea).

Question 6

Q: How can SIBO affect nutrient absorption?

Answer 6

A: SIBO can lead to malabsorption and increased intestinal permeability, which affects nutrient absorption.

Question 7

Q: What factors contribute to the development of SIBO?

Answer 7

A: Factors include poor Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) function, chronic stress, weak digestion, food poisoning, and antibiotic use.Q

Question 8

Q: What is the function of the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC)?

Answer 8

A: The MMC is responsible for moving food and bacteria through the digestive tract and helps maintain gut health.

Question 9

Q: How does chronic stress impact SIBO?

Answer 9

A: Chronic stress lowers secretory IgA levels, creating an environment that promotes bacterial colonization in the small intestine.

Question 10

Q: What digestive issues can contribute to SIBO?

Answer 10

A: Low stomach acid, low pancreatic function, and low bile production can contribute to weak digestion and the development of SIBO.

Question 11

Q: How is SIBO diagnosed?

Answer 11

A: SIBO is diagnosed using a breath test that measures hydrogen and methane levels produced during carbohydrate fermentation.

Question 12

Q: What are the main therapeutic approaches for managing SIBO?

Answer 12

A: The approaches include dietary modifications, antimicrobial agents, and digestive support.

Question 13

Q: What dietary modification is commonly recommended for SIBO?

Answer 13

A: A temporary low FODMAP diet is recommended to reduce symptoms.

Question 14

Q: What are some examples of herbal antimicrobials for SIBO?

Answer 14

A: Examples include berberine-containing herbs (e.g., golden seal, barberry bark), oregano, neem, and allicin.

Question 15

Q: What types of digestive support can be beneficial for SIBO?

Answer 15

A: Incorporating bitter herbs like gentian and bitter greens (e.g., dandelion, rocket, watercress) can enhance digestion and bile flow.

Question 16

Q: What steps are taken after managing bacterial overgrowth in SIBO?

Answer 16

A: Steps include repopulating microflora with probiotics and prebiotics, using natural prokinetics, managing stress, engaging in abdominal breathing exercises, and considering bodywork.

Question 17

Q: How do prokinetics support SIBO management?

Answer 17

A: Natural prokinetics, such as ginger, support the MMC, helping to move food and bacteria through the digestive tract.

Question 18

Q: Why are stress management techniques important in SIBO treatment?

Answer 18

A: Stress management is crucial because stress significantly impacts gut health and the functioning of the digestive system.

Question 19

Q: What role do abdominal breathing exercises play in SIBO management?

Answer 19

A: Abdominal breathing exercises stimulate vagus nerve activity, enhancing MMC function and supporting digestive health.

Question 20

Q: What is the purpose of a bowel cleanse in SIBO treatment?

Answer 20

A: A bowel cleanse can help support gut health by removing waste and potentially harmful bacteria from the digestive tract.