Recent research presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting, ENDO 2025, indicates a significant association between hypothyroidism and an increased risk of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The study suggests that thyroid hormone treatment may mitigate this risk.
Dr. Ruchi Mathur, Director of the Diabetes Outpatient Treatment and Education Center at Cedars-Sinai, noted that individuals with hypothyroidism, particularly those with autoimmune thyroiditis, are more likely to develop SIBO. However, this risk appears to be reduced in patients undergoing thyroid hormone therapy.
The study analyzed small bowel fluid samples from 49 individuals with hypothyroidism and 323 controls without the condition. Findings revealed that 33% of participants with hypothyroidism had SIBO, compared to 15% in the control group. Further analysis indicated that the risk of developing SIBO in individuals with hypothyroidism is more than double that of matched controls, and even higher in those with autoimmune thyroiditis.
These findings highlight the interconnectedness of thyroid function and gut health, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive treatment approaches. Monitoring thyroid health in patients with SIBO and vice versa may lead to more personalized care and improved patient outcomes.
For more information, refer to the Endocrine Society's press release on this study.