What causes SIBO?

No one really knows for definite (yet) what causes small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Some theories include:

1. ​A malfunctioning migrating motor complex (MMC). This is the wave-like motion your oesophagus makes when it pushes food through your digestive tract. In some people this gets damaged during a trauma e.g. an accident or post-surgery.
2. Another theory is a weak sphincter muscle between the large and small intestine which means bacteria are more likely to get displaced.
3. Lastly, low stomach acid. One of the roles of stomach acid is to protect the body from microbial infections. Low stomach acid has therefore been linked to SIBO.

Could this be you? Find out more about what SIBO is and how to get tested for SIBO in the UK.

If you've tested positive for SIBO find out what to do about it here.

​Further information on SIBO testing, including prices can be found here.