Q What is SIBO? Why do bacteria increase in the small intestine?
A SIBO is a condition where bacteria abnormally proliferate in the small intestine, causing abdominal bloating, gas, and impaired nutrient absorption. Main causes include decreased small intestinal motility, reduced gastric acid secretion, and ileocecal valve dysfunction.
Detailed Answer
Normally the small intestine has far fewer bacteria than the large intestine. When small intestinal motility slows or gastric acid decreases, the bacteria-flushing function weakens, allowing excessive bacterial proliferation. Previous abdominal surgery, ileocecal valve dysfunction, and systemic diseases such as diabetes and thyroid disease are also causes.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, the environment allowing bacterial increase is viewed as weakened spleen-stomach transformation function plus accumulation of damp-heat in the intestine. Treatment focuses on restoring gastrointestinal motility and directing turbid qi downward to create an environment unfavorable for bacterial proliferation.
Related FAQs
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Q
I was diagnosed with IBS. Could it actually be SIBO? Does Korean medicine distinguish between and treat the two conditions?
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Q
If there are many bacteria in the small intestine, does nutrient absorption also worsen? What symptoms actually appear?
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Q
I have hypothyroidism and heard that SIBO occurs more easily with it. Can I be treated for both conditions together?
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Q
How should I eat to benefit SIBO?
#Lifestyle Management
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Q
I work delivery in Dong-incheon with irregular meals and high stress. Lifestyle management is not easy — what should I do?
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