Do you often experience bloating after eating, burping, excessive or strong-smelling gas, abdominal discomfort, and a feeling of fullness even after small amounts of food? You may be experiencing SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
SIBO occurs when the bacteria that normally inhabit the colon move up into the small intestine. Here, they begin to ferment food, producing gas and disrupting normal digestion. As a result, nutrients may not be properly absorbed, contributing to brain fog and fatigue. Sometimes the slowed gut motility results in extra calories being extracted, which can contribute to weight gain, despite eating smaller meals.
The usual treatment often involves antibiotics, which reduce the current population of bacteria, but also our friendly microbiome. Proper, long-term support lies in understanding why this imbalance has occurred, and in restoring harmony within the digestive system.
SIBO is often caused by reduced gut motility or the secretion of enzymes, and underlying this can be an element of stress. When the body is under stress, it shifts away from the rest and digest state of the parasympathetic nervous system and into a more alert, protective mode. This can inhibit the digestive process, creating the conditions for stagnation and fermentation. The key is to treat the whole person, not just a bacterial overgrowth.
One of my favourite herbs for supporting digestion is Angelica archangelica. This handsome plant is traditionally used as a warming digestive herb, stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes and encouraging the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. In doing so, it helps to support a more comfortable and efficient digestive process.
As always, there are many individual factors to consider. Diet, burnout and fatigue, hormonal changes such as menopause, or a recent infection can all play a part. Treating the person holistically is the key.