Did you know that in 70% of cases of constipation patients have a condition called SIBO? SIBO stands for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. More specifically, it is an overgrowth or colonization of bacteria that has migrated from the large intestine into the small intestine. It is a form of intestinal dysbiosis like we talked about in our last newsletter. This overgrowth of bacteria can and does cause constipation, excess gas, and bloating.
There are two main tests we run in cases of chronic constipation. The first is a GI 360 Profile. It is a simple stool test that maps out the microbiome in the gut, looking at levels of friendly or good bacteria. It also tests for overgrowth of bad bacteria, yeast, parasites, and viruses. It is the most advanced test on the market in terms of stool analysis. It helps people get to the root cause of constipation.
The second test we do is simply called a SIBO test. It checks more specifically for overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. This is again one of the root causes of up to 70% of cases of constipation. It is a simple at-home test.
These two tests will unearth the root cause of constipation. These are functional medicine tests your traditional medical doctor will not run. You need a functional medicine doctor to help you find and treat the root cause.