Klebsiella: The Gut Superbug and How to Beat It
Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) is a type of gram-negative bacteria part of the commonly found in the human gut flora. It belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family of bacteria, which is also known to comprise Salmonella and E. coli.
Klebiella can become a real pain (literally!) when it overgrows and throws your gut microbiome out of whack. This can lead to a whole host of unpleasant symptoms, including those known to burden those with IBS and SIBO, and even more serious conditions like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease.
Why is Klebsiella so tricky?
There are a few reasons that make Klebsiella very hard to eradicate.
Biofilm Formation: Klebsiella forms protective biofilms that shield it from your immune system and even antibiotics.
Immune Evasion: It can cleverly inhibit white blood cells from attacking it, and even dampen down your initial inflammatory response.
Antibiotic Resistance: Many strains are becoming increasingly resistant to conventional antibiotics.
Symptoms of Klebsiella Overgrowth
Klebsiella overgrowth can manifest in many ways, but common symptoms include:
Intense headaches
Loose stools
Sore lymph nodes around the throat
Increased food intolerances (mainly coffee, chocolate, dairy, sugar)
Trouble sleeping
Anxiety
Abdominal pain, bloating, and gas
Constipation or diarrhea
Fatigue and weakness
Joint and muscle pain
Brain fog, OCD, ADD/ADHD
Depression and/or anxiety
Poor memory and concentration
You do not need to have all of these to suspect a Klebsiella overgrowth. These symptoms are also not exclusive to this bacteria being overgrown, which is why it is important to test if you have symptoms to either confirm or rule it out.
Testing for Klebsiella
A comprehensive stool test, like a CDSA (Complete Digestive Stool Analysis) or Microbiome Mapping like the GI-MAP, can identify the presence and count of Klebsiella, as well as many other gut imbalances. I usually recommend this form of testing to every chronic case of IBS or SIBO coming into my clinic.
Treatment Strategies
While conventional treatment often involves antibiotics, there are natural and holistic approaches that can effectively address Klebsiella overgrowth and support gut health:
1. Probiotics and Saccharomyces boulardii:
Saccharomyces boulardii (SB): This powerful yeast-based probiotic helps to discourage the growth of Klebsiella and other unfriendly bacteria. It also reduces inflammation, boosts immune function, and improves digestion. I recommend this probiotic to almost all of my SIBO patients.
Broad-spectrum probiotics: These probiotics help to restore a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut. Look for strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. plantarum, Bifidobacterium breve, and L. rhamnosus. A word of caution if you have SIBO, as these strains can sometimes be harder to tolerate. For more information about the use of Probiotics with SIBO, make sure to read my article on the matter.
2. Herbal Antimicrobials:
Pomegranate husk: This potent herb is particularly effective against Klebsiella, especially when combined with other supporting herbs. I love this one as it offers specificity and doesn’t disrupt the rest of your microbiome as much.
Clove tincture: Helps to break down Klebsiella biofilms.
Oregano leaf: Has natural broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. Careful not to confuse it with oil of oregano, which I find can be too strong.
Propolis: A natural resin produced by bees with powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Garlic: A natural antibiotic with anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its Allicin content.
Berberine-rich herbs(Coptis chinensis, barberry, goldenseal): These herbs are powerful broad-spectrum antimicrobials, however they don't combine so well with pomegranate husk.
It is ideal to work with a qualified practitioner knowledgeable with herbs in order to select the optimal herbal blend for your needs.
3. Immune Support:
When your immune system is compromised, Klebsiella has a much easier time taking over. This is why people with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes, chronic lung disease, alcoholism, cancer, or who are immunocompromised, are at higher risk for serious Klebsiella infections. A robust immune system is your best defense against Klebsiella.
Here's how to strengthen your immune defenses:
Supplementing with selected Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on your diet, supplementation of these nutrients could benefit and help you strengthen your immune system:
Vitamin A: Essential for immune cell function and maintaining healthy mucous membranes, which act as a barrier against infection. Good sources include sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and cod liver oil.
Selenium: An antioxidant that supports immune cell activity and helps to reduce inflammation. Good sources include Brazil nuts, tuna, and eggs.
Zinc: Crucial for immune cell development and function. Good sources include oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas.
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that boosts immune cell activity and helps to fight infection. Good sources include citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries.
Antioxidants: These help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can weaken your immune system. Good sources include green tea, turmeric (curcumin), blueberries, raspberries, pomegranate and dark chocolate.
Adequate rest and sleep: No surprise here, great sleep (in duration and quality) is crucial for immune function and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Avoid antibiotics unless absolutely necessary: Antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiome, which in turn can weaken the immune response, and thus create an environment where Klebsiella can thrive.
4. Dietary Modifications:
Low-starch diet: Klebsiella thrives on starch, so reducing your intake can help to starve it out. This is especially important if you have ankylosing spondylitis or Crohn's disease. You can read more about this topic in this research article.
Avoid refined carbohydrates and sugars: These can further contribute to general gut dysbiosis.
Go for the Prebiotic foods: These foods feed the good bacteria in your gut, helping to crowd out Klebsiella. Include foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, leeks, bananas, and Jerusalem artichokes. If you have SIBO, these might exacerbate your symptoms so incorporate one of them at the them and in small amounts at first.
Go Easy on the Fermented foods: Although these foods are rich in probiotics, which can help to restore a healthy gut microbiome, they are also high in histamines. Klebsiella is a known histamine-producer, so you might be dealing with a case of histamine intolerance. Go slow and incorporate these 1 tablespoon at a time!
Working with a Holistic Practitioner
It's important to work with a qualified holistic practitioner who specializes in gut health. If you choose to work with me, I can help you create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and symptoms. Klebsiella overgrowth can be challenging, but with the right approach and consistent effort, you can regain control of your gut health and feel your best again!