Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

SIBO commonly known as “Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth”, is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number bacteria in the small intestine.

CAUSES OF SIBO

1. Structural abnormalities : Any structural abnormalities or changes in the anatomy of the digestive system such as strictures or adhesions can create conditions for bacterial overgrowth.
2. Impaired motility : Conditions that affect the movement of food through the digestive tract, such as muscular or nerve damage can lead to SIBO.
3. Low stomach acid
4. Immune system dysfunction
5. Medications
6. Underlying digestive disorders
7. Dietary factors

SYMPTOMS OF SIBO

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating and distension
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Gas and flatulence
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Nausea
• Heartburn

RISK FACTORS

• Diabetes

• Crohn’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Scleroderma
• HIV

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT FOR SIBO

• In Ayurveda SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) is correlated with an imbalance in the three Doshas (vata , pitta and kapha ) mainly vata and pitta Doshas, digestive fire (Agni) and the accumulation of toxins (ama) in the digestive tract.
• According to Ayurvedic principles impaired agni can lead to incomplete digestion , which in turn can create undigested food particles that serve as feeding ground for bacteria in the small intestine.

Treatment in Ayurveda

• Treatment involves restoring balance to the Doshas and agni through dietary and lifestyle changes , herbal remedies and detoxification therapies.

Detoxification (Panchakarma therapies)

• Abhyanga (therapeutic oil massage)
• Swedana (herbal steam therapy)
• Basti (herbal enema)

HERBAL REMEDIES

• Turmeric
• Triphla

Triphala (amalaki , bibhitaki and haritaki ) that is traditionally used in Ayurveda to support digestive health. It improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut.

• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice root is traditionally used in Ayurveda to support digestive health and reduce inflammation in the gut.

• Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem is known for its antibacterial properties and may help reduce the overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.

• Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint oil is often used to help relieve symptoms of SIBO such as bloating , abdominal pain.

• Berberine-containing herbs

Berberine is a compound found in several herbs including barberry , goldenseal.These has antimicrobial properties and help reduce bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.

Dietary changes

• Avoid eating oily , spicy , packed or processed food.
• Avoid Carbonated Beverages.
• Avoid intake of alcohol and caffeine.
• Avoid foods high in added sugar such as candies, cakes , and sugary beverages.
• Avoid high- FODMAP foods : These are carbohydrates that are fermentable by gut bacteria. These include onions , garlic , certain fruits (apples , pears , watermelon) , certain vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli , brussels sprouts)and legumes.

Lifestyle modifications

• Stress Management
• Regular Exercise
• Adequate sleep
• Yoga