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FAQs on Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sunil Shroff, MBBS, MS, FRCS (UK), D. Urol (Lond) on Jul 31, 2021


FAQs on Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

1. What type of doctors treat Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)?

SIBO is treated by gastroenterologists who are specialists in identifying and treating digestive tract disorders.

2. Is SIBO contagious?

No, SIBO is not contagious. It develops as a secondary health condition and so cannot spread from one person to another.

3. Do I catch SIBO due to my dietary pattern and lifestyle?

No, you don't. SIBO is not a gastrointestinal infection. It is not caused by unhealthy meal patterns, stress, or any other mental health condition.

4. Will SIBO go away by itself?

No, SIBO does not go away on its own. Proper treatment with nutritional support is essential to treat SIBO.


5. Is SIBO serious?


SIBO can be treated well if diagnosed earlier. However, if left untreated, SIBO can cause severe malnourishment, dehydration, and even intestinal failure in some cases.

6. Can I fix SIBO naturally?

SIBO occurs most commonly as a secondary health condition. Hence, treating the underlying conditions and arresting excessive bacterial growth are essential in treating SIBO, while natural supplements and herbal preparations can be taken as supportive care.

7. Can I eat rice if I have SIBO?

Yes, you can enjoy rice even if you have SIBO. There are no restrictions to consume rice in low-FODMAP and other elimination diets for SIBO.

8. Do probiotics help SIBO?

Probiotic supplements help repair the gut and improve the symptoms of SIBO in some patients.

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