Constipation: Could SIBO be the Cause?
Constipation can be due to many reasons, such as medications, poor diet or improper nutrition (ex: eating dairy if you have an allergy or intolerance), lack of movement, impaired digestion (low stomach acid, enzyme deficiencies), and other lifestyle factors (trauma, perfectionism and inflexibility, eating too quickly or in a stressed state, etc).
While all of these are relevant to consider, there’s another reason often behind chronic constipation: SIBO.
Constipation and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) are very closely connected, and there’s quite a few reasons why your constipation might be due to SIBO. Let’s have a look.
Altered Gut Motility & types of SIBO
SIBO manifests in different forms, each with its unique impact on gut motility. Hydrogen SIBO, Methane SIBO (now also known as IMO, Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth) and Hydrogen-Sulfide SIBO constitute the SIBO spectrum.
In methane-dominant SIBO/IMO, constipation usually prevails. Elevated methane gas levels, a byproduct of methanogens activity, cause a deceleration of intestinal motility, resulting in constipation. This slowdown not only fosters the persistence of SIBO but also sets the stage for a self-sustaining cycle. Constipation can also be seen in cases of Hydrogen and Hydrogen Sulfide SIBO, although these occurrences are quite rare.
Changes in the Gut Microbiome
The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine disrupts the balance of the gut microbiome. This imbalance influences the digestion and absorption of nutrients, directly impacting bowel movements and paving the way for constipation. Restoring this microbial balance becomes pivotal in addressing both SIBO and its associated constipation.
Inflammatory Responses
SIBO ignites inflammatory responses within the gut, further complicating the terrain. These inflammatory signals can disrupt intestinal motility, contributing to constipation. Understanding and addressing these inflammatory triggers to lower inflammation become a crucial step in managing both SIBO and its digestive repercussions.
Diet Changes
SIBO often prompts individuals to modify their diets as a coping mechanism.
Ever heard of Low FODMAP? The Carnivore diet?
Carbohydrate and fiber reduction, while providing relief from SIBO symptoms, can inadvertently contribute to constipation. These dietary adjustments, although beneficial for short-term SIBO management, necessitate a slow approach and introduction to ensure regular bowel movements.
Underlying Conditions
SIBO may be a constipation culprit, but it's often a consequence of deeper-rooted issues. Underlying conditions like parasites, yeast overgrowth, leaky gut, bacterial dysbiosis, or food sensitivities could be both the instigator of SIBO and a direct cause of constipation. To truly address constipation linked to SIBO, a holistic approach that looks into these layers of root causes is essential.
If constipation has become a recurring theme in your gut health narrative, considering SIBO as a contributing factor could provide a pivotal piece to the puzzle for you! If you are seeking relief, I have created a FREE Constipation Guide to help you get your poops back! Click on the button below to access the download page.