small intestine overgrowth

Small intestine overgrowth: causes, remedies & treatment options

If the natural intestinal flora of humans gets out of balance, it can lead to a so-called small intestine overgrowth come. The consequences of such a miscolonization can be very unpleasant and lead to an impairment of the quality of life. In this article you will learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatment options of small intestine overgrowth.

The natural human intestinal flora is a complex ecosystem consisting of different types of bacteria. These bacteria are necessary for digestion and metabolism, they produce vitamins and regulate the immune system. A healthy intestinal flora is therefore important for overall human health.

How does small intestine overgrowth occur?

A small intestine overgrowth occurs when the natural balance of the intestinal flora is disturbed and certain types of bacteria gain the upper hand in the small intestine. This can lead to digestive problems, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea and other symptoms. The causes of small intestine overgrowth have not yet been fully elucidated. Possible causes include food poisoning, poor diet, drug therapies such as antibiotic treatments or operations with subsequent adhesions in the intestine and also high levels of stress. Certain diseases such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease can also increase the risk of small intestine overgrowth.