The sense of fullness after breakfast can stem from small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, an excess of bacteria in the small intestine. This imbalance often comes with stool changes, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and sometimes a rotten smell in the mouth due to elevated intestinal gases. These observations are shared by a gastroenterologist working with DocDeti, who explained the symptoms to socialbites.ca.
The most common issue linked to SIBO is bloating caused by gas produced inside the intestines. Many patients report a sense of tension and distension in the abdomen after meals, especially after breakfast. The discomfort might be noticeable when standing, walking, or bending to tie shoes, according to the clinician.
Often the stretching sensation concentrates where the intestines bend, beneath the ribs on both sides. Some patients mistake this pain for problems with the pancreas or liver. In reality, it results from the intestines expanding due to gas buildup.
“A frequent complaint is foul-smelling, loose stools, changes in stool appearance, and sometimes undigested food in the stool”, the gastroenterologist noted. A reflex that drives the urge to defecate after meals, known as the gastrocolic reflex, can occur. Constipation is less common because methane-rich gas can slow intestinal contractions. Nausea, persistent abdominal pain, heartburn, belching, a bitter taste in the mouth, and bad breath may accompany the condition due to the higher gas content in the gut”, the doctor added.
SIBO can impair the digestion and, in some cases, the absorption of nutrients. Because of this, it should not be ignored or left untreated.
“Today, the leading diagnostic method for SIBO is a breath test that measures hydrogen and methane after a lactulose dose. Patients exhale into bags in a laboratory setting for about 120 minutes. Treatments for SIBO focus on four pillars: reducing bacterial numbers with antibiotics known as intestinal antiseptics; identifying and removing conditions that contribute to SIBO or bringing them into remission; symptom relief with medications such as antispasmodics, carminatives, anti-diarrheals, laxatives, or neuromodulators; and following a Low-FODMAP diet to limit foods that fuel gas production and addressing intolerances. These strategies are implemented in a coordinated plan to help restore balance in the small intestine”, the physician explained.
Historically, the information is grounded in ongoing clinical practice aimed at improving gut comfort and nutrient absorption for adults, including older individuals living with digestive concerns.