Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when too many bacteria—especially those normally found in the colon—populate the small intestine. That backfires by triggering gas, bloating, pain, diarrhea, and nutrient absorption issues.
If you’re in the St. Louis region and battling persistent digestive problems, SIBO could be why. Let’s explore what it is, what causes it, and how you can find relief—especially at Link Primary Care (LPC).
What is SIBO?
Under normal conditions, stomach acid and intestinal muscle contractions keep bacterial levels in check. But when this system falters—due to surgery, motility disorders, low stomach acid, or other diseases—bad bacteria multiply and colonize the small intestine .
Once in overdrive, these bacteria ferment food, producing hydrogen and methane gas, disrupting nutrient absorption, and leading to deficiencies such as low B12 and vitamin D.
Who’s at Risk?
Common risk factors include:
- History of abdominal surgeries (including bariatric or bypass procedures)
- Structural issues like strictures, adhesions, blind loops
- Conditions causing slow digestion (e.g., scleroderma, diabetes, gastroparesis)
- Low stomach acid or acid blocker/proton-pump inhibitor use
- Inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, cirrhosis, or pancreatitis
A recent study highlights that up to 75% of Americans haven’t heard of SIBO—even among IBS patients—while nearly three out of four feel dismissed when mentioning their gut troubles.
Common Symptoms
Typical SIBO symptoms include:
- Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, distension
- Diarrhea or constipation (sometimes alternating)
- Feeling full quickly, nausea
- Fatigue, brain fog, unintended weight loss
- Steatorrhea (greasy stools) and foul-smelling gas
Diagnosing SIBO
Healthcare providers diagnose SIBO with:
- Hydrogen/methane breath tests (supported by both Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic)
- Intestinal stool culture
- Blood tests and stool markers for malabsorption, nutritional deficiencies
- Abdominal imaging with CT or MRI if structural issues are suspected
Treatment Approach: The LPC Advantage
At Link Primary Care, we offer same‑day appointments and a holistic, patient‑first strategy. Our care team is ready to address SIBO symptoms promptly.
Treatment plans can include:
- Antibiotics (like rifaximin) to reduce bacterial overgrowth
- Dietary adjustments, such as low-FODMAP or elemental diets
- Prokinetic medications to improve gut motility
- Nutrient supplementation—including vitamins B12, D, calcium, and iron—to correct deficiencies
Dietary Strategies & Lifestyle Tips
- Low-FODMAP diet: reduce fermentable carbs.
- Elemental diet: liquid nutrition that ‘starves’ bacteria
- Avoiding excessive fiber and sugar—bacteria thrive on them
- Stress management, sleep hygiene, and regular physical activity to enhance gut motility
SIBO vs. IBS: Know the Difference
SIBO frequently looks like IBS, but the distinctions matter:
| Feature | IBS | SIBO |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnosis | Symptom-based | Breath test or aspirate/culture |
| Treatment | Symptomatic (fiber, antispasmodics) | Antibiotics + diet + prokinetics |
| Relapse | Recurrence common | Cure possible |
Real-World Impact: A SIBO Success Story
“After months of bloat and gut pain, Dr. Bereda suspected SIBO on day one. Within two weeks on antibiotics and a dietary low‑FODMAP plan, I felt like myself again.”
FAQs
Is SIBO curable?
Yes, for many. Treatment cures overgrowth, but retraining the gut via motility medications and lifestyle changes keeps it from returning.
Are probiotics helpful?
Often not. They may worsen symptoms by adding bacteria to an already overcrowded small intestine
When should I seek care?
If you’re experiencing persistent bloating, diarrhea, malabsorption, or weight loss, schedule a consultation. Early evaluation prevents long-term deficiencies.
Why Choose Link Primary Care for SIBO?
At LPC, we uphold our brand promises:
- Great access: same‑day visits
- Quality time: extended visits for accurate diagnosis
- Trusting relationships: tailored SIBO care
- Excellence in care: evidence-based antibiotics, diets, and supplements
- Affordable pricing: clear, flat membership rates
- Relaxed clinic experience: cozy St. Louis vibe
Call Us Today And Get Your Gut Back on Track
Schedule a one‑on‑one consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Davis using the following link:
https://calendly.com/jeffreydavis-linkprimarycare/link-primary-care-meeting
Get more information on our website at linkprimarycare.com
