Selena Gomez Reveals Battle with SIBO: Understanding the Rare Digestive Disorder
Selena Gomez standing outside a house
Selena Gomez recently revealed she lives with SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), a gastrointestinal disorder that causes excessive gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort. The 32-year-old singer and actress disclosed this information while responding to body-shaming comments on social media.
SIBO occurs when there is an abnormal increase of bacteria in the small intestine. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating and distention
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Weight loss
- Malabsorption of nutrients
- Fatty-looking stools
Several factors can trigger SIBO, including:
- Compromised gut motility
- Stress
- Dietary changes
- Certain medications
- Medical conditions (diabetes, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease)
- Immunosuppressive therapy
- Previous abdominal surgery
Treatment options for SIBO include:
- Antibiotics:
- Xifaxan (Rifaximin)
- Neomycin
- Dietary modifications:
- Low FODMAP diet
- SIBO-specific diet
- Natural remedies:
- Herbal supplements (FC-Cidal, Candibactin, LBT1)
- Probiotics
- Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir)
While there is no permanent cure for SIBO, proper treatment and management can help control symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Working with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan is essential for managing this chronic condition effectively.