If you struggle with gallbladder problems or you’ve had your gallbladder removed, you’re more susceptible to developing Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth– otherwise known as SIBO. 

Unfortunately, SIBO can lead to a variety of digestive symptoms– as can most gallbladder-related complications. 

As a functional nutritionist, I’ve helped countless clients navigate the challenges of SIBO, and rediscover how to feel their best in their bodies. 

When you’re educated on gallbladder complications, you’ll be more equipped to manage any symptoms that present themselves along the way. And don’t worry, I’ve got plenty of tips for you about easy and natural ways to help you overcome your symptoms! 

Let’s first dive into what SIBO is, and why it’s more common in those with gallbladder issues. 

What Is SIBO?

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition characterized by an excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine. Normally, the small intestine has less bacteria compared to the large intestine.

In a healthy digestive system, the small intestine contains about 104 bacteria per mL, while the large intestine holds up to 1012 bacteria per mL.1 This balance is necessary for optimal digestive health.

With SIBO, bacteria from the colon or large intestine migrate up into the small intestine where they proliferate. This throws off the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

Symptoms of SIBO

Symptoms of SIBO can vary, and they often overlap with other gastrointestinal concerns. 

The most common SIBO symptoms include2:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea 
• Weakness 
• Fatigue
• Malabsorption of nutrients

These symptoms are the product of the fermentation of carbohydrates due to the overgrown bacteria. Because of this, people often experience gas and irritation in the small intestine.

Why SIBO Is More Common Post-Gallbladder Removal

If you’ve had gallbladder problems, or you’ve had your gallbladder removed, you’re a more likely candidate to develop SIBO. 

But WHY is this? 

Let’s talk about bile. Your gallbladder plays a pivotal role in storing and concentrating bile formed from the liver. Bile is mostly made of water but it also contains bile acids, bilirubin, phosphatidylcholine, and cholesterol. 

While bile’s main function is to aid in the digestion of fats, bile also contributes to maintaining a healthy microbiome in your digestive system.

Your large intestine holds tons of beneficial gut bacteria. And conjugated bile acids are abundant in the small intestine, typically inhibiting bacterial growth. 

But when you have poor bile flow to the small intestine due to gallbladder dysfunction or absence, the antimicrobial activity decreases…leading to an increased risk of bacterial overgrowth. 

SIBO occurs when bacteria overgrowth in the large intestine moves into the small intestine. 

How Bile Flow Issues Can Lead to SIBO 

Bile acids are needed for nutrient absorption and preventing bacterial overgrowth. They help regulate small and large intestine motility. 

If you have issues with bile flow into the small intestine, it can lead to lower motility and lower antimicrobial activity– meaning a greater chance of SIBO. 

Bile acids also regulate and initiate the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) which is responsible for cleaning the intestines between meals. If your MMC is impaired due to low bile, you’re more susceptible to developing SIBO.  

Lastly, as mentioned at the start, bile includes an essential component called phosphatidylcholine which constitutes 96% of the phospholipids in bile.3 This helps thin the bile, preventing it from becoming sludgy or forming gallstones. 

Unfortunately, when you have gallbladder issues, you usually have a deficiency in phosphatidylcholine. This deficiency leads to a reduced bile output, therefore increasing the risk of developing SIBO, gallstones, or fatty liver disease. 

How to Prevent, Manage, and Treat SIBO 

If you’ve been struggling with SIBO symptoms, I’ve got you covered. You can do a lot from home naturally to prevent and manage this condition. 

The focus for overcoming SIBO symptoms involves:

• Reducing bacterial overgrowth
• Improving gut motility
• Restoring a healthy balance of gut bacteria 

Dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and supplements are among my top recommendations for resolving your symptoms. 

1. Adjust What and How You Eat!

As a functional nutritionist, this is always a good start. However, JUST changing your diet alone won’t solve all your problems. If you’re struggling with SIBO, a good step towards symptom relief is choosing a low-carb diet with whole foods and minimally processed foods.

Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein in your meals. For my top gallbladder-friendly recipes, grab my grocery list and meal guide HERE!

I also always recommend practicing mindful eating, meaning taking deep breaths before meals, eating slower, and eating without distractions. All of these methods help reduce bloat and other uncomfortable SIBO symptoms! 

2. Try Herbs for Relief

Some herbal supplements have antimicrobial effects and can help naturally restore balance to your gut microbiome. 

Some herbs to consider include: 

• Oregano oil 
• Sage
• Thyme 
• Lemon balm 

Research has shown that the use of herbal remedies may be as effective as antibiotic medications in treating SIBO symptoms.4 Always consult your doctor before starting a new supplement or medication. 

3. Consider Bile Acid Supplements 

If you’ve undergone gallbladder removal, or your gallbladder issues are causing bile acid insufficiency, bile acid supplements can help aid in digestion. 

Ox Bile or TUDCA supplements help support a healthy gut microbiome. Check out my Top Supplement Recommendations here! And again, remember to consult your physician before trying new supplements. 

4. Don’t Forget About Probiotics 

We all know probiotics are great for restoring and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. And a good balance of gut bacteria is key for overall digestive health and fewer SIBO symptoms. 

My favorite probiotic options include: 

• Yogurt
• Kefir 
• Saurkraut 
• Kombucha

You can also consider a probiotic supplement if your doctor gives you the okay! 

Address Your SIBO With a Functional Nutritionist 

SIBO can be a challenge. But when you address the underlying causes and symptoms of SIBO, you can improve your digestive health– and your overall well-being! 

I’ve overcome my own struggles with gallbladder disease. Ever since, I’ve helped thousands of people prevent and improve their gallbladder symptoms as a gallbladder-focused functional nutritionist.

So I’d love to do the same for you! 

If you’re dealing with SIBO, gallbladder disease, post-gallbladder removal complications, or other gallbladder issues… I’m here for you. Click here to connect with me and let me know your concerns. I can’t wait to help you feel like your best self again!