How to recognise, target and eliminate SIBO for good!

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a bacteria that normally inhabit the colon. It can be found in the small intestine, in numbers large enough to cause symptoms.

It is estimated that over 80% of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have SIBO and addressing it can make a huge difference to your symptoms.

The FODMAP diet tends to provide symptomatic relief for those with SIBO but it doesn’t address the underlying gut flora imbalance.

Other signs and symptoms of SIBO include:

• bloating
• belching
• reflux
• anaemia
• B12 deficiency
• food intolerances
• abdominal pain
• brain fog
• chronic fatigue

It is also common in Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia, rosacea, and can be found after regular use of antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors.

How to relieve symptoms

The FODMAP diet tends to provide symptomatic relief for those with SIBO but it doesn’t address the underlying gut flora imbalance. I have found that the paleo diet, GAPS or a low-carb approach can also be quite effective.

Treatment

Antibiotics can be used to eradicate the bacterial overgrowth, but they need to be followed up almost immediately with a gut restoration protocol to avoid the return of the bacteria.

More natural approaches to eradicate SIBO include using oregano extract and concentrated garlic, whilst following a low carbohydrate diet. Probiotics should be avoided initially as this can worsen symptoms.

Restore digestive function

After an initial period, some level of intervention is required to return digestive function to normal. Without this, it is possible that the problem could re-occur. Re-testing may be needed to confirm the overgrowth has been dealt with.

Further work will be required to strengthen the tissues of the gut wall, as well as replenishing the gut bacteria too.