Do You Suffer From…
Hi, we are a Naturopathy clinic located in Melbourne. We specialise in helping people suffering with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Candida Overgrowth, Parasite Infections, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and digestive problems.
“If you’re serious about improving your health, I highly recommend the Pure Gut Health course. It’s easy to navigate and great value for money. There are printable PDF files, diet guidelines, a fantastic recipe book and, most importantly, ongoing advice and support from Helena. I still often refer to the recipes – my favourites are the quinoa and buckwheat loaves. I thought I knew a fair bit about gut health before doing this comprehensive course, but I learned so much more.” ~ Linda
What is Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth?
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) refers to a condition in which abnormally large numbers of bacteria are present in the small intestine and the types of bacteria in the small intestine more closely resemble the bacteria of the large intestine. Unlike the large intestine, which is rich with bacteria, the small intestine usually has less than 104 organisms per millilitre of fluid. Likewise, the types of bacteria within the small intestine are different than the types of bacteria within the large intestine.
SIBO is associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Flora overgrowth may break down bile acids, necessary for absorption of fats, thus reducing absorption of fats and fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. In severe cases, bacteria may damage the small intestinal wall, thus impairing carbohydrate and protein absorption, resulting in malnutrition. Anaemia may also develop, when bacteria interfere with B12 reabsorption.
What Are Signs and Symptoms of SIBO?
What Factors Contribute To SIBO Developing?
How Do You Get SIBO?
Ordinarily bacteria are moved out of the small intestine into the large intestine via a series of wave-like muscle contractions (peristalsis). The ileocecal valve that separates the two intestines prevents movement of bacteria from the large intestine back into the small intestine. However, disruptions in intestinal motility or physical disturbances inhibit this natural defensive pattern and bacteria begin to accumulate in the small intestine.
SIBO Treatments
SIBO can become persistent, and is certainly something you want to treat immediately. When SIBO occurs, this affects your digestive functions and can lead to 'Leaky Gut Syndrome', which causes food intolerances, auto-immune diseases and many other seemingly unrelated health conditions. SIBO also causes you to react to certain FODMAP foods due to the fermentation and gas that is produced from the bacteria when you ingest these foods. Generally, the FODMAP Diet should be followed for a maximum of 4 months and the root cause addressed during this time. No food groups should be eliminated long term from your diet as you are in fact starving your good bacteria from these foods as well.
It's important to get effective treatment for SIBO so you can feel healthy and energised again. We can come up with a specific treatment plan for you encompassing a specific diet, herbs and nutrients.
Would you like to have…
If you are looking to get on top of SIBO once and for all, we’d love to help you out. Book an appointment today!