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Kamloops, BC | Kelowna, BC

Diagnosed with IBS? There’s a 84% chance that you actually have SIBO.  

People often confuse Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) because they share many similar symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Both conditions also involve disturbances in the normal functioning of the digestive system. Moreover, it’s not uncommon for a person with IBS to also develop SIBO, adding to the confusion. The overlap in symptoms and the frequent co-occurrence make it challenging for both patients and healthcare providers to distinguish between the twowithout specific diagnostic testing that is.

For over 10 years, I have been diagnosing and treating SIBO and I have helped hundreds of patients optimize their gut health. As a Naturopathic Doctor at Total Health Clinic in Kamloops, BC, I take specific clinical interest in gut health, helping my patients and to get to the root cause of their symptoms. You do not have to live in discomfort—through proper testing, treatment and resolution, I have helped hundreds of patients optimize their gut health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of SIBO, I can and will help you find relief. 

What Is SIBO?

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition characterized by an excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine, where there should typically be relatively few bacteria compared to the colon. This overgrowth can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and gas. SIBO disrupts the normal digestion and absorption of nutrients, causing malabsorption and potentially leading to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. 

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Unlike Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), IBS does not cause changes in bowel tissue or increase the risk of colorectal cancer. It’s considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning the symptoms are due to problems with how the gut works rather than structural abnormalities

How is SIBO related to IBS?

SIBO (small intestine) and IBS (large intestine) are closely related conditions that often coexist and share similar symptoms. SIBO can contribute to the development or exacerbation of IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine seen in SIBO can lead to fermentation of carbohydrates and production of gasses, causing bloating and discomfort. These symptoms mirror those commonly experienced by people with IBS. 

Moreover, studies have shown a high prevalence of SIBO in patients with IBS, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions. Research shows that 84% of IBS patients showed an abnormal result on the lactulose breath test (LBT)—that means 84% of patients diagnosed with IBS also tested positive for SIBO. 

Is SIBO dangerous?

SIBO is typically considered more of a chronic nuisance than a dangerous condition in itself. However, its complications can significantly impact quality of life and long-term health if left untreated. The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, potentially causing deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. Chronic symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea can also severely disrupt daily activities and overall physical and mental well-being. Moreover, SIBO is often associated with underlying gastrointestinal conditions like IBS or Crohn’s disease, which may require careful management to prevent complications. While SIBO itself is not life-threatening, its effects on nutrient absorption and gastrointestinal function emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment to mitigate symptoms and maintain optimal health. 

How can I be tested for SIBO?

After our initial visit, if I suspect SIBO, I’ll order a hydrogen-methane lactulose breath test, which is crucial for identifying the type and severity of bacterial overgrowth, to confirm the diagnosis. This helps in tailoring the treatment plan. Here’s a summarized explanation of the process:

  1. Breath Test Explanation: SIBO is diagnosed through a hydrogen-methane lactulose breath test, which is an inexpensive and non-invasive procedure that can be conducted at home. The test detects excessive levels of hydrogen or methane gases produced by bacteria in the small intestine as they break down carbohydrates. Normally, the human body does not produce such high levels of these gases.
  2. Preparation and Procedure: The test requires a 24-hour preparation diet, followed by a fasting period. On the day of the test, the patient consumes a lactulose solution. Lactulose is a specific carbohydrate that human digestive enzymes cannot process, but which bacteria can metabolize, producing gases. Patients then provide breath samples over a three-hour period at 20-minute intervals. The first sample serves as a baseline, and subsequent samples measure gas levels as the lactulose travels through the small intestine.
  3. Results Interpretation: Changes in the levels of hydrogen and methane in the breath samples indicate the presence and type of bacterial overgrowth. Typically, high hydrogen levels are associated with diarrhea (faster transit time), while high methane levels correlate with constipation (slower transit time).
  4. Importance of Professional Care: Proper testing, interpretation, and treatment of SIBO should be managed by a medical professional experienced with the condition. Each patient may require a customized treatment approach based on their specific symptoms and test results.

It’s important to note that SIBO cannot be diagnosed through stool testing, as these tests reflect the bacterial environment in the large intestine, not the small intestine where SIBO occurs. This ensures that the diagnosis and treatment are accurately targeted to the condition.

How is SIBO treated?

After diagnosing Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) with a lactulose hydrogen and methane breath test, treatment proceeds in two phases:

Phase 1: Eradication of Bacteria
This initial stage targets the bacterial overgrowth using tailored pharmaceutical and herbal antibiotics, guided by test results. Patients usually experience significant improvements in digestion, skin health, and overall mood within the first two weeks.

Phase 2: Restoration and Prevention
The second stage is critical for long-term management, focusing on healing the gastrointestinal tract and preventing recurrence. This phase addresses underlying issues like a dysfunctional migrating motor complex (MMC), often overlooked in treatment. Specific medications, dietary adjustments, and nutrients are used to enhance MMC function and repair the gastrointestinal lining. Proper treatment during this stage drastically reduces the relapse rate, observed in about 50% of untreated cases within six months.

How can a Naturopathic Doctor support SIBO treatment?

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I provide comprehensive support for individuals undergoing treatment for SIBO using a holistic approach that integrates natural therapies alongside conventional medicine. My approach begins with thorough assessments to identify underlying causes such as diet, lifestyle factors, and overall gut health. I emphasize personalized dietary plans that focus on reducing fermentable substances like FODMAPs, which can exacerbate SIBO symptoms. I often recommend herbal therapies with antimicrobial properties to complement antibiotic treatment and support the reduction of bacterial overgrowth. Probiotics and prebiotics are also part of my treatment strategy to restore a healthy balance of gut flora and improve digestion. Additionally, I address systemic inflammation and work to enhance overall immune function to support gut healing and prevent recurrence of SIBO. Through ongoing monitoring and patient education, I empower patients to take an active role in their gut health journey, promoting long-term, sustainable symptom relief.

SIBO and IBS Relief in Kamloops, BC

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I’ve helped hundreds of patients find relief from SIBO in Kamloops, BC. If you’ve been diagnosed with IBS or experiencing symptoms related, book your initial intake with me at Total Health in Kamloops, BC. For additional information on SIBO, visit my other website SIBOdoctors.ca.