What Causes Gut Fermentation Syndrome?

Overindulgence In Sugar And Carbohydrates

Overindulgence in sugar and carbohydrates can trigger severe symptoms in individuals with gut fermentation syndrome. However, for patients with the condition, 'overindulgences' can be very small. Simply eating what most would consider a normal amount of rice or bread, or even just drinking a soda or some juice can have dramatic effects. Patients can literally become 'drunk' from carbohydrates, as the overgrowth of yeast in their bodies upsets the normal balance of bacteria in their system, meaning they can no longer process carbohydrates and simple sugars effectively. Instead, their bodies ferment any carbohydrates they consume into ethanol, a type of alcohol. Treatment includes a low carbohydrate and low sugar diet that eliminates any source of yeast or alcohol. Patients are advised to continue these dietary modifications until their stool sample shows no yeast. The majority of patients choose to continue this diet as a long-term lifestyle to prevent a relapse.

Get to know more about what causes gut fermentation syndrome now.

Overabundance Of Yeast In The Digestive System

An overabundance of yeast in the digestive system is considered to be one of the main culprits of the disease. Two types of yeast known to be involved in the condition are candida and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In addition to the excessive amounts of yeast seen in gut fermentation syndrome, the condition adversely affects the normal process of digestion itself. Fermentation is a normal part of the digestive process for everyone and takes place when bacteria break down food. In healthy individuals, it occurs in the colon; however, in those with gut fermentation syndrome, fermentation takes place in the small intestine, an area located higher up in the digestive tract. This digestive error may be one of the reasons why the amount of yeast overgrows so much with this particular syndrome.

Now that we've looked at some of the major causes of gut fermentation syndrome, let's look into some of the affected populations.