pylori-induced gastritis, acid-blocking medications (over the counter or prescription), other autoimmune conditions, malnutrition, an d aging all can cause failure of the gastric acid barrier. One of the main mechanisms inhibiting the overgrowth of bacteria in the upper intestine is stomach acid.Įlevated TSH (signifying hypothyroidism) and even subclinical hypothyroid cases have been associated with lowered stomach acid production, which can cause a host of symptoms, not least of which is the possible proliferation of bad bacteria in the gut. Click To Tweet 4 Ways The Thyroid and Gut Connect Stomach Acid

SIBO may decrease thyroid medication absorption. When any one of these mechanisms fail, you are at risk for SIBO. There are three main mechanisms in place to protect your small intestine from becoming overrun with bacteria- stomach acid, intestinal motility ( the spontaneous and independent movement of food/waste via the gastrointestinal tract ), and the immune system. That basically means your body isn’t receiving the full benefits from all of that delicious, nutritious food you’re eating. The condition is a malabsorption syndrome as the bacteria cause damage to the small intestine and create an environment in which they (the bacteria) preferentially absorb your nutrients.

SIBO generally presents as bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, although there are asymptomatic cases. Studies have shown that SIBO may be present in more than half of patients with hypothyroidism! Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, or SIBO is a condition in which there is too many bacteria present in the small intestine. Hypothyroidism, a condition in which there is too little thyroid hormone present in the body, can result in a number of GI symptoms, including the potential for overgrowth of bacteria, yeast or an imbalance in gut flora. Here's why that is and 7 ways to help heal. Fun, right? Thyroid digestive problems and intestinal issues, unfortunately, tend to go hand in hand. Do you suffer from hypothyroidism or know someone who does? Chances are you know a little bit about the gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms that go along with it.

Levothyroxine and adrenal problems