What is SIBO and how is it linked to PPIs?

SIBO is bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. PPIs, by reducing stomach acid, may allow bacteria to survive and multiply in the small intestine.

Can Emily Lyon's heartburn medication cause weight loss?

Yes, Emily Lyon experienced significant weight loss due to severe diarrhea caused by SIBO, which is believed to be a side effect of her long-term PPI use.

What are the risks of long-term PPI use like Emily Lyon experienced?

Long-term PPI use is linked to an increased risk of SIBO and potentially other health issues, with a concerning rebound effect upon discontinuation.

Home / Health / Emily's Life Reversed by Common Heartburn Pills

Emily's Life Reversed by Common Heartburn Pills

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Acid reflux medication caused severe SIBO, leading to extreme weight loss.
Commonly prescribed PPIs increase SIBO risk by 4.2% per month.
Millions of prescriptions are issued yearly, with many for long-term use.

Emily's Life Reversed by Common Heartburn Pills

A Cambridge woman's life was drastically altered by severe gastrointestinal problems attributed to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly prescribed for acid reflux. Emily Lyon, 23, suffered extreme diarrhea and lost 3 stone in two months, forcing her to abandon her job and studies. She was diagnosed with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition strongly linked to long-term PPI use.

Studies suggest that prolonged use of PPIs, which reduce stomach acid, can increase the risk of SIBO by over 4% monthly. Despite the potential risks and Emily's struggles, discontinuing the medication often triggers a severe rebound effect of her original heartburn symptoms, leaving her feeling trapped.

While PPIs are among the most frequently prescribed drugs in the UK, experts warn they are often used too broadly and for too long. Alternative treatments and lifestyle changes are recommended for managing reflux, but Emily remains reliant on her current medication while awaiting potential surgery for an underlying hernia.