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When your gut doesn't feel right and persistent bloating, pain, or strange alterations in digestion become frequent, you might be getting into the grip of SIBO. But what is SIBO? In simple terms, let us understand the symptoms of SIBO, methods of diagnosis, and possible treatment options, including the SIBO diet plan and medical treatments by our expert specialists in Pune.
Synopsis
What Is SIBO?
SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. In simple words, it's when bacteria that are normally found in other parts of the digestive system start multiplying in the small intestine, which normally has very few of these bacteria. When this overgrowth happens, it causes trouble with digestion and absorption—your gut can’t operate as it should.
People are often surprised by SIBO because the symptoms are similar to other digestive troubles. It’s often linked to past gut surgery, chronic illnesses like diabetes, structural problems, or sometimes nerve issues that slow down digestion.
SIBO Symptoms: What Should You Watch For?
The SIBO symptoms can range from a little annoying to absolutely life-dominating, and here is what most people notice:
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Consistent bloating and distension: That uncomfortable stretched feeling after a meal.
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Abdominal pain: Cramping or aching, especially after eating.
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Excessive flatulence: Much more than usual.
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Diarrhoea or constipation: This may alternate.
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Fatigue or weakness: Because of declining nutrient absorption, your energy levels might just plummet.
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Weight loss with no effort: Unexplained change in body weight.
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Stool changes: greasy, pale, loose, and malodorous stools (steatorrhea).
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Food sensitivities: Suddenly finding certain foods (often carbs) makes symptoms worse.
If any of these sound familiar and they haven’t improved with simple changes, it might be SIBO—especially if they’ve persisted for over a month.
SIBO Diagnosis: How Do Our Gastroenterologists in Baner Confirm It?
Getting an accurate SIBO diagnosis really matters because the symptoms overlap with other gut conditions. The first step is usually talking to our gastroenterologist in Baner.
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They will start with a detailed discussion about symptoms and medical history.
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The main SIBO test is a breath test—either a glucose or lactulose breath test—where you drink a special sugar solution and then blow into a collection tube.
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If bacteria are present in high numbers, they release gases (hydrogen or methane) that show up in your breath.
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Sometimes, our doctors might take a sample of fluid directly from your small intestine using endoscopy, but this is less common.
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Other tests might include blood panels to check for vitamin deficiencies, stool tests, or scans to look for structural issues that might have triggered the problem in the first place.
SIBO Treatment Options
Antibiotics for SIBO
The go-to therapy for confirmed SIBO is usually a course of antibiotics for SIBO. The goal is to reduce excessive bacteria to restore gut balance.
While antibiotics are effective for most people, SIBO can come back if underlying causes (like gut motility issues) aren’t addressed. That’s why ongoing support, sometimes with repeat treatments, can be necessary.
The SIBO Diet Plan
Alongside antibiotics, a carefully thought-out SIBO diet is essential. There isn’t one universally accepted SIBO diet, but many specialists recommend low FODMAP or similar low-carbohydrate plans that reduce fermentable sugars feeding bacteria. What does this look like in practice?
Foods to Limit:
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High-sugar and carb foods.
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Certain fruits (apples, pears, mangoes).
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Dairy is high in lactose.
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Beans and lentils.
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Wheat and rye.
Foods You Can Often Tolerate:
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Lean meats, fish, and eggs.
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Spinach, carrots, and zucchini.
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Potatoes and rice (in modest amounts).
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Lactose-free dairy.
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Blueberries and strawberries (limited quantities).
Some patients use an “elemental diet,” a liquid regimen where nutrients are absorbed easily without feeding the bacteria—but this should only be done with specialist supervision.
Probiotics and Lifestyle Measures
There’s mixed research on probiotics during active SIBO. Some people feel better, while others experience a worsening of their condition. What’s more reliable? Daily movement, stress reduction, good hydration, and regular meals. Antibiotics get rid of the bacteria, slowly reintroduce the diversity of foods under guidance, so that bacteria levels remain intact.
Living With SIBO: Everyday Tips
If you have found that you have SIBO:
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Stick to the SIBO diet; no shortcuts or quick fixes should be taken.
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Take all prescribed antibiotics as directed.
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See our doctor for a follow-up breath test in case symptoms come back.
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Eat slowly; chew your food well; never miss a meal.
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Get moving; any movement is good motion for your gut!
Keep track of your symptoms and block out times when certain foods seem to bother you; discuss these with our specialists.
Remember: SIBO is totally manageable and, under the right course of therapy and guidance, the vast majority of people can see huge improvements.
Curing SIBO: Can Relief Be Lasting?
SIBO most often comes under control with treatment, but recurrence is very common, especially if the underlying drivers or causes (like a slow-moving gut) are never fixed. It is a good idea to continually partner with a gastroenterologist ongoing basis. Our team of highly skilled and experienced gastroenterologists in Baner have excellent diagnostic abilities. From the identification of the root causes and treatment in tailoring the treatment to achieve lasting gut health all-important step towards long-term recovery, our specialists are here to support you at every step.
Conclusion
Visit our Gastrointestinal Science department in Manipal Hospitals, Baner, or book an appointment now to see a doctor.
FAQ's
SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is a condition characterised by excessive bacteria in your small intestine, often linked to surgery, chronic illness, or conditions that slow gut movement.
SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is a condition characterised by excessive bacteria in your small intestine, often linked to surgery, chronic illness, or conditions that slow gut movement.
The most common are bloating, abdominal pain, excessive gas, diarrhoea or constipation, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Changes in stool appearance can also signal SIBO.
The most common are bloating, abdominal pain, excessive gas, diarrhoea or constipation, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Changes in stool appearance can also signal SIBO.
Our doctors use an SIBO test called a breath test. You drink a sugar solution and exhale into a collection tube; high amounts of certain gases suggest bacterial overgrowth.
Our doctors use an SIBO test called a breath test. You drink a sugar solution and exhale into a collection tube; high amounts of certain gases suggest bacterial overgrowth.
Most cases respond to antibiotics for SIBO, with dietary changes—especially a low FODMAP or tailored elimination diet—playing a vital supporting role.
Recurring cases are common. Working with our gastroenterologists for tailored diet plans, treating underlying conditions, and monitoring symptoms makes relapse less likely.
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