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Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome

By

The Manual's Editorial Staff

Reviewed/Revised Jul 2022 | Modified Sep 2022
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Your gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the tube that goes from your mouth to your anus. The GI tract includes your esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and small and large intestines. Your small intestines are where food is absorbed. Good bacteria live in your intestines. You need the right amount of these good bacteria.

What is bacterial overgrowth syndrome?

Bacterial overgrowth is when the good bacteria in the small intestines grow too much. The extra bacteria keep you from absorbing all the nutrients in your food. Not absorbing nutrients is called malabsorption Overview of Malabsorption Food you eat has to be digested before it can go into your body. Digestion breaks food down into its separate parts: Proteins Fats Carbohydrates Proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are nutrients... read more .

  • The extra bacteria in your intestines keep you from digesting food properly

  • The bacteria also use up nutrients in your food that you need for your health

  • Some people have no symptoms, but others have diarrhea, lose weight, or feel gassy and bloated

  • Doctors may do a breath test, test samples of fluid from your small intestine, or do x-rays of your GI tract

  • Doctors treat bacterial overgrowth syndrome with antibiotics and may suggest changes in your diet

What causes bacterial overgrowth syndrome?

What are the symptoms of bacterial overgrowth syndrome?

How can doctors tell if I have bacterial overgrowth syndrome?

Doctors diagnose bacterial overgrowth syndrome based on your symptoms and if you have conditions that favor overgrowth of bacteria in your colon. They may also:

How do doctors treat bacterial overgrowth syndrome?

Treatments can include:

  • Antibiotics

  • Eating less carbohydrates and fiber

  • Vitamins or minerals to correct specific deficiencies

Most people get better after taking antibiotics for 10 to 14 days.

Doctors may suggest you eat a diet that's higher in fat and lower in carbohydrates and fiber to slow down the bacteria's regrowth.

NOTE: This is the Consumer Version. DOCTORS: VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION
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