The typical SIBO pattern
In SIBO, bacteria sit higher up in the gut than they should. They start fermenting food soon after you eat, producing gas in a part of the intestine that is not designed to handle it. The result: bloating that builds within 30 to 90 minutes after a meal and gets worse as the day goes on.
- Belly flatter in the morning, more distended in the evening
- Bloating even after small or 'healthy' meals
- Reactions to fibre, garlic, onion, legumes or sugar alcohols
- Belching, flatulence, abdominal discomfort
Other possible causes
Bloating is not always SIBO. Food intolerances, constipation, low stomach acid, pancreatic insufficiency, coeliac disease, hormonal fluctuations and stress can all play a role. That is why guessing rarely works — and why ruling out other conditions with your physician is important.
When is testing worthwhile?
- Bloating on most days for several weeks or longer
- Symptoms returning after previous gut infections or antibiotics
- IBS diagnosis without clear improvement
- A low-FODMAP diet helps only temporarily
What you can do today
Leave four to five hours between meals, avoid constant snacking, eat slowly and keep a symptom diary. These steps won't resolve an overgrowth, but they give useful insight — and make your test results easier to interpret.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Medical decisions, medication and prescriptions always remain with your physician.
Bloated every day?
Find out whether SIBO is part of the picture.