Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth – known as SIBO – occurs when there is an excessive amount of colonic bacteria present in the small intestine. A healthy small intestine typically contains a very miniscule amount of bacteria. The small intestine is located in the upper portion of the abdomen and its purpose is to absorb nutrients and water and then move the food into the large intestine.
Symptoms of SIBO include:
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Gas
- Bloating- often worse at the end of the day
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea/constipation or alternating of the two
- Heartburn
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Nutrient deficiencies, especially B12 and iron
- Bladder pain
Having powerful stomach acid helps to limit overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.
It does this by beginning the process of digestion, helping to break down the food easier for the small intestine. It also helps kill bad bacteria that may be introduced into our bodies via the digestive tract.
Let’s strengthen that stomach acid!
The following supplements, carried in the Inspired Health Apothecary, are excellent options for fortifying stomach acid. Find more information about each product, including dosing suggestions, click the links below.
GI-Zyme is a wonderful blend of digestive enzymes that support healthy digestion and the breakdown of difficult to digest sugars known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides are found in foods such as beans and cruciferous veggies – ie broccoli.
Gastric acid is especially helpful in digesting protein and contains hydrochloric acid and other supportive ingredients to promote healthy digestion.
Duozyme is an option to support digestion in both the stomach, intestine, liver and pancreas. It creates a powerful teamwork to optimize digestion from several angles!
A gentle, liquid option is Digestive Bitters: An organic, plant based formula designed to get your digestive juices flowing. This formula is safe for kiddos as well! Helps relief symptoms of nausea, reflux and bloating. Side note: this product does contain miniscule amount of alcohol so please take that into consideration.
DoTerra’s DigestZen essential oil blend is a wonderful “tummy tamer.” Add it to water to support digestion internally. You can also apply topically to your abdomen with a little bit of fractionated coconut oil to soothe from the outside.
As always, it is best to talk to a provider to help determine which of these digestive support options is best for you. Treating SIBO is multifactorial. Our Inspired Health providers are passionate about gut health and are happy to address your gut health concerns and optimize your digestion!
Be Well!
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References
[1] “Small Intestine bacteria overgrowth.” 2022.
[2] “Small intestine.” 2022.
[3] “Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth.” 2022.
