What is SIBO and what does it have to do with stress – Online Psychologists

In our daily lives, we face a range of situations that can impact both our physical and mental health. Stress and anxiety emerge as two of the main psychological factors that can exert a powerful influence on our overall well-being, significantly impacting digestive health.

In this context, various investigations have highlighted the relevance of syndrome of Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a gastrointestinal syndrome recent that It already affects the 22% of the population.

He SIBO or bacterial overgrowth It is a condition in which there is a overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestinethe part of the digestive system responsible for absorbing nutrients from the foods we eat.

This syndrome has gained medical attention due to its complexity and its apparent relationship to stress. This gastrointestinal condition results from a bacterial imbalance in the small intestine, where colon bacteria proliferate excessively. Symptoms may include bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and malabsorption of nutrients.

What is intriguing, however, is how stress could be involved in its development and worsening. As researchers delve deeper into this connection, a better understanding is sought to develop more effective diagnostic and treatment approaches, bringing relief to those affected by this complex gastrointestinal condition.

Although it may be complex to understand, the connection between SIBO and stress is becoming increasingly evident.

According to the American Gastroenterological Society, SIBO can present several common symptomsranging from abdominal pain to bloating, gas, flatulence, or diarrhea. Cases of nausea, abdominal cramps, and constipation have also been reported. In more severe situations, SIBO can even cause deficiencies in nutrient absorption.

According to the SIBO clinical guideline, bacterial overgrowth used to be seen in people with poor bowel mobility due to gastrointestinal disorders or surgeries that affected small bowel movement.

This included people with low stomach acid, scleroderma, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, chronic pancreatitis, liver disease, or celiac disease, and also to those who underwent gastric bypass for obesity. It has been found that old age and the feminine gender are associated with a higher chance of having SIBO.

Some common symptoms that may suggest that our intestine has an excess of bacteria are:

It is important to note that these symptoms may vary from person to person and will depend on the severity of the bacterial overgrowth, as well as its location and extent in the small intestine. If these symptoms are experienced persistently or with concern, it is essential to consult a health professional for a proper diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

This syndrome has captured medical attention due to its complexity and apparent relationship with stress

Stress is a the body's natural response to challenging or stressful situations. When we are under stress, our body releases certain chemicals and hormones to prepare for action, which can affect several symptoms, including the digestive one. This is where the relationship between SIBO and stress comes in.

According to a study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, chronic or prolonged stress It can alter the balance of bacteria in our gut and affect its proper function. When we are stressed for a long time, there can be changes in the way the gut moves and processes food, creating an environment conducive to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, i.e. SIBO.

This study involving 50 peopleof which 26 were diagnosed with SIBO and 24 without SIBO, revealed the following:

In addition, stress also can influence our food choices and in How our body digests foodFor example, some people under stress may turn to unhealthy eating or overeating, which can also negatively impact digestive health and contribute to the development of SIBO.

Here are some practical tips that can help us in our daily lives, according to several expert sources, they are:

If you need emotional support and stress management, online therapy can be a great option. It allows you to receive help from the comfort of your homeespecially if you live far from a therapist or have difficulty getting around. You also have more Flexibility with schedules of the sessions and gives you the opportunity to feel more relaxed by interacting with the therapist in a familiar environment.