There may be different types of dysbiosis as suggested below:
1. Putrefaction
This is a pattern which results from diets high in fat and meat and low in fiber. This type of diet produces increased concentrations of a bacteria called Bacteroides sp. and induces enzyme activity that can contribute to the formation of cancer. Population studies implicate this type of dysbiosis to be associated with the establishment of colon cancer and breast cancer.
2. Fermentation Excess
This is a condition of carbohydrate intolerance induced by an excess of normal bacteria in the small intestine. Abdominal bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation and feelings of malaise are commonly described. In these cases maldigestion and malabsorption is common, contributing to nutritional deficiencies.
3. Deficiency
Exposure to antibiotics or a diet low in soluble fibre may create a deficiency of normal intestinal flora, including Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus and E. coli. This condition has been described in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and food intolerance. Deficiency and putrefaction dysbiosis often occur together and respond to the same treatment. Probiotic supplementation as well as fructooligosaccharides are often helpful in reestablishing a normal flora.
4. Sensitisation
Abnormal immune responses to components of the normal intestinal microflora or infections may contribute to the development of inflammatory bowel disease, types of arthritis and other connective tissue diseases or skin disorders such as psoriasis or acne. The presence of bacteria and their byproducts can perpetuate inflammatory diseases by penetrating the intestinal barrier, where they may cause damage to cells and their function and invade the systemic circulation. This provokes a continuing chain of chronic inflammatory immune responses.
