Anxiety is a common feeling experienced by many of us, but for some, it can be more than just an occasional emotion. In fact, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) may be a contributing factor to anxiety and other mental health issues. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the connection between SIBO and anxiety, what the research says, and how you can find relief. We’ll cover the symptoms of SIBO, the connection between SIBO and anxiety, and the treatments available to help manage symptoms. By understanding the connection between SIBO and anxiety, you can take steps to find relief and improve your mental health.

What is SIBO?

SIBO stands for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, a condition that happens when bacteria grow in the small intestine. This bacteria is normally found in the large intestine, so when it grows in the small intestine, it can cause a variety of health problems. SIBO is estimated to affect up to 35% of the population, but only a fraction of people with SIBO ever get diagnosed. People with SIBO often don’t experience any symptoms, and they may never realize they have it. The small intestine is where food is broken down and nutrients are extracted from food; this is why SIBO is such a big deal: it messes up the normal process of digestion. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, gas and bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. SIBO can also cause a variety of symptoms outside the gut, including anxiety, fatigue, and headache

Symptoms of SIBO

• Loss of appetite.
• Abdominal pain.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• Malnutrition
• Bloating.
• An uncomfortable feeling of fullness after eating.

SIBO stands for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, a condition that happens when bacteria grow in the small intestine. This bacteria is normally found in the large intestine, so when it grows in the small intestine, it can cause a variety of health problems. SIBO is estimated to affect up to 35% of the population, but only a fraction of people with SIBO ever get diagnosed. People with SIBO often don’t experience any symptoms, and they may never realize they have it. The small intestine is where food is broken down and nutrients are extracted from food; this is why SIBO is such a big deal: it messes up the normal process of digestion. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, gas and bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. SIBO can also cause a variety of symptoms outside the gut, including anxiety, fatigue, and headaches.

What is the connection between SIBO and anxiety?

People with SIBO tend to have higher levels of anxiety, and people with anxiety tend to have higher levels of SIBO. This means that it’s more likely that someone with a diagnosis of anxiety has SIBO, and vice versa. However, more research is needed to determine exactly how the two are connected. Researchers are still trying to figure out why there is a connection between SIBO and anxiety, but the following are a few theories: – Hormones in the gut: The gut produces a variety of different hormones that affect the rest of the body. In some people with SIBO, the bacteria in the gut may produce too much of some of these hormones and cause anxiety and other mental health issues. – Gut microbes and neurotransmitters: The gut microbes may also affect neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that are involved in mental health issues. This could mean that the microbes in the gut are making less serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that’s involved in mood disorders like anxiety. – Diet and lifestyle choices: In the same way that the gut microbes and neurotransmitters are connected, the foods we eat and lifestyle choices can also affect mental health. For example, diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can affect serotonin levels.

How is SIBO diagnosed?

If you experience a combination of symptoms, like bloating, constipation, and anxiety, you may want to consider getting tested for SIBO. There are a couple of different ways to test for SIBO. The first is through a breath test, which is a non-invasive way to get a small sample of your breath to test for hydrogen and methane gas. If you have SIBO, you’ll likely have higher levels of these gases in your breath. Another way to test for SIBO is with a blood test. A blood test will check for specific antibodies that indicate SIBO in the small intestine. It’s important to note that a SIBO test isn’t diagnostic by itself. It simply means that you have some symptoms that are associated with SIBO. You’ll still have to determine what the root cause of SIBO is in your body.

Treatment for SIBO

There are a few ways to treat SIBO. The first is finding and treating the root cause of the SIBO. The second is treating the SIBO itself. Let’s take a look at each in turn: – Finding and treating the root cause: It’s important to find the root cause of SIBO to treat it properly. There may be a variety of things that are causing the SIBO, and you’ll have to treat each one individually. For example, SIBO may be caused by diet, lack of digestive enzymes, or use of antibiotics. You’ll have to figure out what’s causing the SIBO in your body and treat it appropriately. – Treating the SIBO itself: One way to treat the SIBO itself is by taking antibiotics. However, antibiotics aren’t always the best option. They can cause side effects, and they can be difficult to end when you’re ready to stop taking them. There are also probiotics that can help kill off the bacteria in the gut and treat the SIBO.

Diet and lifestyle changes for SIBO

There are a few specific diet and lifestyle changes that can help manage SIBO. The first is eating a low-carbohydrate diet. This can help control the bacterial growth in the gut and keep SIBO at bay. You should also avoid foods that are known to cause SIBO, like fermented foods, beans, and other legumes. You should also avoid artificial sweeteners and drink plenty of water. You should also make sure to get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly. And if you’re struggling with anxiety, you should also make sure to get help for tha

Supplements for SIBO

As we’ve mentioned, probiotics can be helpful for managing SIBO. You can also try other supplements as well, like vitamins, minerals, and digestive enzymes. You should also make sure to get enough omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for proper brain health and can help reduce anxiety.

How to find relief from SIBO-related anxiety

If you have SIBO and anxiety, it can be hard to find relief. However, there are a few things that you can do to help manage SIBO-related anxiety. First, you should get tested for SIBO and treat it if necessary. Second, you should make sure to eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise. Finally, you should get help for your anxiety. The first two steps can help manage SIBO-related anxiety and allow you to improve your mental health. The third step can help you to get rid of your anxiety

How can we help?

If you are suffering from IBS issues or have been diagnosed with a SIBO infection, reach out to us at the clinic. Our practitioners have years of personnel and professional experience of dealing with SIBO.