Sibo

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when there is an excess of bacteria or fungi in the gut that can migrate into the small intestine. This can lead to a buildup of unwanted microbes in the digestive tract, potentially causing significant irritation and imbalance, disrupting its function, and resulting in pain. 

Our digestive process involves a delicate balance that requires enzymes to break down difficult-to-digest proteins, the production of hydrochloric acid to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and bile production, which neutralizes stomach acid before it enters the small intestine.

The five leading causes of intestinal overgrowth are:

1.      Excessive use of medications, antibiotics, and antacids can disrupt intestinal bacteria.

2.     Weak stomach acid production enables undesirable bacteria to enter the small intestine, increasing gas and bloating.

3.     Years of untreated elimination and gastrointestinal issues weaken tissues and create an ideal environment for illnesses and pathogens to thrive.

4.     A diet high in processed and sweetened foods nourishes microbes and disrupts a healthy microbiome.

5.     Stress can reverse the flow of digestion and increase intestinal pressure, damaging the ileocecal valve (ICV) and allowing intestinal microbes to move into the small intestine.

While conventional medicine uses antibiotics to treat Sibo, Ayurveda employs holistic approaches that may include detoxification (panchakarma) modalities, dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, and body therapies.

There are many holistic practices to consider, and it is advisable to collaborate with a practitioner who can assess your constitution and imbalances to create a tailored program. And some initial considerations can include:

1. Avoid or reduce refined carbohydrates and sugars, which feed harmful bacteria.

2. Incorporate vegetables, including dark leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and asparagus.

3. Increase healthy fats and proteins, such as organic meat and fish, nuts, seeds, and avocado.

4. Spicy foods that irritate the digestive tract.

5. Use FRESH ginger to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and fight microbes.

6. Ayurvedic herbs can help limit bacterial development (triphala, ginger, turmeric, and neem)

7. Body therapies for Sibo include: Abhyanga massage with Sibo sequences for the IC valve, using Bastis (herbal enemas), and Shirodhara (warm oil poured over the third eye).