Thomas wrote: I think my doctor said that most people have it and its counted today as a part of the normal flora and even if there is evidence for harmfulness it too is an important factor for immune defence and digestion. I see if I can press him for a check up.
He’s right. It’s evolved with us for a very long time and may have a protective role against esophageal cancer. When it’s allowed to overgrow, it can cause gastritis, ulcers and the problems mentioned in the article. This is why doctors often try to treat it with antibiotics. I don’t think this solves the root of the problem and has side-effects, but knowing if you have an overgrowth is useful.
From what I’ve read, it relies on hydrogen as an energy source, and a pathogenic species of bacteria called Klebsiella produces large amounts of hydrogen by feeding on starch. This is one potential way it can be allowed to overgrow. It’s probably why reducing carbs helps GERD too.
Anyway, it’s really important you get your stomach functioning correctly if you want to beat SIBO. Poor stomach function can be a direct cause of the condition. Since you’re sure bacterial overgrowth is your problem, you should find the advice in this article really helpful http://perfecthealthdiet.com/2010/07/eleven-steps-for-overcoming-alzheimer%E2%80%99s-and-other-chronic-infectious-diseases/ Intermittent fasting (eating only during an 8-hour window) is pretty amazing. Look at this picture comparing two mouse livers. Exactly the same unhealthy diet and calories. The only difference was the eating windows.
