Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Here is the conclusion of a recently study on Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and IBS:

The data do not support an important role for SIBO according to commonly used clinical definitions, in IBS. However, mildly increased counts of small-bowel bacteria seem to be more common in IBS, and needs further investigation. Motility alterations could not reliably predict altered small-bowel bacterial flora.

An earlier study concluded:

The question remains if the observed bacterial overgrowth is a cause of disease or just a consequence of altered bowel motility, but the association for part of the IBS population is certain.

SIBO may not be a primary cause of some symptoms in some IBS suffers it might play a role in other suffers.

If you search the board for Rifimax - an antibiotic used to treat SIBO - you will find some recent posting by individuals who have tried this treatment. As I recall the results range from mixed to poor.

Reference
Posserud, I., P. O. Stotzer, E. S. Bjornsson, H. Abrahamsson, and M. Simren, 2007: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Gut, 56, 802-808.

Podovei, M. and B. Kuo, 2006: Irritable bowel syndrome: a practical review. Southern Medical Journal, 99, 1235.

--------------------
STABLE: ♂, IBS-D 50+ years - Science of IBS

The FODMAP Approach to Managing IBS Symptoms
Evidence-based Dietary Management of Functional GI Symptoms: The FODMAP Approach
FODMAP Chart & Cheatsheet
The Role of Food & Dietary Intervention in IBS

Print Remind Me Notify Moderator