Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is not a minor tummy trouble you can just ignore. It’s a serious condition that can affect your health and daily life if you don’t receive treatment. SIBO is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed since its symptoms can resemble those of other gastrointestinal issues. Understanding SIBO is important to know when you have the condition and how to manage it effectively. This guide contains answers to some of the most commonly asked about SIBO. It includes all the information you need to navigate your SIBO journey and live with the condition until it’s gone.
Table of Contents
- Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Treatment Options
- Diet and Nutrition
- Living with SIBO
- Engagement and Interaction
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- What is SIBO, and how is it diagnosed?
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition that occurs when bacteria in your small intestine grow out of control. To diagnose it, the doctor will carry out a breath test, which measures the levels of hydrogen and methane gases in your exhale. - What are the different types of SIBO, and how are they classified?
There are three main types of SIBO: (i) hydrogen-dominant SIBO, (ii) methane-dominant SIBO, and (iii) hydrogen sulfide-dominant SIBO. They are classified based on the gas made by bacteria in the small intestine. Each type can produce unique symptoms and may require a different treatment approach. - What specific bacteria are involved in hydrogen-dominant SIBO?
Hydrogen-dominant SIBO is often caused by Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus. These bacteria feed on carbs and produce hydrogen gas as a by-product. - Which bacteria are commonly linked to methane-dominant SIBO?
Methanogens, especially Methanobrevibacter smithii, cause methane-dominant SIBO. These bacteria convert hydrogen into methane, which can slow down the movement of food in the gut, leading to constipation. - What triggers hydrogen sulfide production in the gut, and which bacteria are involved?
The presence of bacteria, like Bilophila and Desulfovibrio, triggers the production of hydrogen sulfide in the gut. These bacteria can use sulfur in their metabolic process, making hydrogen sulfide gas. - What is the most accurate type of testing for SIBO?
The best way to detect SIBO is through a lactulose breath test. This test checks the levels of methane and hydrogen in your breath after you drink lactulose. High levels of these gases can indicate SIBO. - What causes SIBO?
The most common causes of SIBO are slow gut motility, food poisoning, and overuse of medications that upset the gut balance. Your SIBO can also be due to structural issues in the GI tract or any conditions that reduce the production of gastric acid, which helps regulate bacteria levels in the gut. - Can mitochondrial problems cause SIBO?
Yes, mitochondrial issues can contribute to the development of SIBO. When the mitochondria are not functioning properly, the cells in the intestinal tract won’t be able to produce enough energy to move food through the digestive tract. This makes food stay longer in the small intestine. With so much undigested food to feed on, bacteria can start to build up in the gut, causing SIBO. - Can low stomach acid cause overgrowth?
Yes. Gastric acid helps inhibit the growth of bacteria that enter the small intestine from the stomach. If the levels of gastric acid are too low, these bacteria can multiply quickly, which can lead to SIBO. - What are the common symptoms of SIBO?
People with SIBO may experience a wide range of symptoms. The most common complaints include nausea, bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and feeling too full or uncomfortable within an hour of eating. - Are there unique symptoms associated with each type of SIBO
Each type of SIBO has unique symptoms that differentiate it from others. For instance, if you have hydrogen-dominant SIBO, you also may experience diarrhea, in addition to common issues like bloating and abdominal discomfort. Methane-dominant SIBO often results in constipation and brain fog due to high ammonia levels, while hydrogen-sulfide SIBO can cause foul-smelling-gas and stools and other seemingly unrelated issues, such as skin rashes and small fiber neuropathy. - What are the typical symptoms of hydrogen sulfide-dominant SIBO?
Common symptoms of hydrogen sulfide-dominant SIBO include diarrhea, abdominal pain, sulfur-smelling gas, and neurological complaints. - Does SIBO constantly dehydrate you, and why?
If SIBO causes frequent diarrhea, it can dehydrate you due to loss of water and electrolytes. SIBO also reduces the colon’s ability to absorb water, which can lead to dehydration. - Is constant burping, flatulence, and trapped gas a symptom of SIBO?
Yes, constant burping, flatulence, and trapped gas are symptoms of SIBO. They occur due to the increase in the fermentation of food by bacteria in the small intestine. - Can SIBO cause hypokalemia?
Yes, SIBO can lead to hypokalemia (low levels of potassium in the body). When the population of bacteria in the small intestine becomes too large, it can reduce the absorption of minerals, including potassium, in the body, which can cause hypokalemia. - Can SIBO cause headaches or migraines?
Yes, SIBO can cause headaches or migraines. When bacteria in the small intestine start to overgrow, the body sends white blood cells to the area to combat their growth. This may lead to systemic inflammation, which may affect the central nervous system, causing headaches or migraines. Headaches and other neurological issues are more common in people with poor glycemic control or those suffering from hydrogen-sulfide SIBO. - Can SIBO lead to weight gain?
SIBO is often associated with weight loss since it affects the absorption of food in the small intestine. But the truth is that it can also make you gain weight. This may occur if the sufferer has poor gut motility, an imbalanced microbiome, or an underlying medical condition, which can affect metabolism and fat storage in the body. - Can SIBO cause chronic gastritis and pernicious anemia?
Yes, SIBO may lead to chronic gastritis since it can trigger an inflammatory response in all parts of the body. It can also cause pernicious anemia, as it interferes with the absorption of minerals like VB12, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells in the body. - Can SIBO cause acne?
Although SIBO does not directly cause acne, it can contribute to the development of the skin condition and make it even worse. Since SIBO affects the balance of the gut microbiome, it can lead to systemic inflammation that can spread to the skin, causing acne breakouts. - Can SIBO cause joint pain?
SIBO can also be linked to joint pain. The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can trigger an inflammatory response in all parts of your body, including the joints, which can lead to joint pain. - Does SIBO affect thyroid function?
SIBO can make it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients that are essential for proper thyroid function. Interestingly, thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Grave’s Disease, or Hashimoto’s, can also exacerbate gut health issues, including SIBO. - Is SIBO/IBS hereditary, and which conditions (like Ehlers-Danlos) are correlated?
SIBO and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) are not directly hereditary. However, some genetic conditions, like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, can increase your risk of having SIBO and IBS. - How does SIBO contribute to anxiety and depression?
SIBO can disrupt the brain-gut connection, which can increase your levels of anxiety and depression. Having SIBO may also mean you need to adopt a new diet, deal with unpredictable symptoms, and isolate yourself from friends and family, which can affect your mental health and quality of life. As a result, you may begin to feel blue and stressed out. - How is hair loss connected with SIBO, and is it because the gut does not absorb vitamins and nutrients with SIBO?
SIBO can lead to hair loss – and yes, it’s because it interferes with the absorption of nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for hair growth. - Is it possible to be deficient in magnesium with SIBO, but the bloodwork is ok?
Yes, you can still have a magnesium deficiency even if your bloodwork looks normal. This is because standard tests may not detect low levels of magnesium inside the cells where it’s stored and used. - Can stress affect SIBO?
Stress can slow down digestion and upset the balance of the bacteria in the gut, leading to SIBO. Elevated levels of cortisol (a hormone that’s released when we are stressed) can inhibit the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a key role in relaxation and digestion functions. - What is the impact of hydrogen sulfide on gut health?
Due to its cytotoxic effects, hydrogen sulfide can damage the gut lining, which can cause inflammation and make the gut more permeable (leaky gut). A leaky gut means food particles, bacteria, and toxins that are normally contained in the intestines can escape into the bloodstream and cause different health problems. - Can improving gut health help reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia?
Yes, improving gut health, particularly by addressing SIBO, might help alleviate some symptoms of fibromyalgia due to lower inflammation and changes in the gut microbiome. - What other health challenges are alleviated when SIBO is eradicated?
Fixing SIBO can help relieve health conditions often associated with it, such as rosacea, restless leg syndrome, and autoimmune reactions. This may be due to lower systemic inflammation and improved nutrient absorption in the body. - How does SIBO yeast differ from bacterial SIBO, and what symptoms are indicative of this condition?
Unlike SIBO, SIBO-yeast or SIFO (Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth) occurs when yeast grows in large quantities in the small intestine. While both conditions share similar symptoms, a person with SIBO yeast can also develop fatigue, cravings for sugars, and fungi infections, like thrust and athlete’s foot.
Treatment Options
- What are the treatment options for SIBO?
SIBO treatment usually begins with the use of antibiotics to reduce the growth of bacteria that are growing rapidly in the small intestine. This is often combined with dietary changes and nutritional support to relieve symptoms, alter the gut microbiome, and prevent nutrient deficiencies. Effective treatment protocols also include prokinetics and treating any issues with the small and large intestines. - What are some natural treatment options for SIBO?
SIBO can also be treated using herbal antimicrobials, supplements, and the elemental diet. While natural treatment protocols can help manage SIBO, it can take a long time to see results. That’s why physicians recommend combining them with pharmacological treatments to eliminate SIBO more quickly. - Can you get rid of SIBO with herbs and supplements?
Some herbs and supplements, like allicin, berberine, and oregano oil, can be used as a substitute or with antibiotics to reduce bacteria growth and restore the balance of gut flora. However, they need to be taken under the guidance of a health provider. - What role do herbal remedies play in treating SIBO?
Because of their excellent antioxidant properties, herbal remedies, such as oregano oil, berberine, and allicin, are often used as alternatives or complements to antibiotics to antibiotics during SIBO treatment. - What are the treatment challenges associated with SIBO-yeast (SIFO/SIYO)?
SIBO yeast can be hard to treat because of the resilience of yeast cells and their ability to form biofilms, which protect them from antifungal treatments. Specialized treatment protocols and dietary changes are often needed to get rid of yeast cells without disrupting the balance of the gut flora. - Why are antibiotics alone not enough to treat SIBO?
There are many reasons antibiotics alone often fail to provide long-term relief from SIBO. Firstly, antibacterial treatment courses are not usually aligned with bacteria lifecycles or consider the ability of the bacteria to form biofilms. They also don’t address the root cause of the condition, like poor gut motility, dietary problems, or GIT structural issues. A comprehensive treatment involving antibiotics, diet, supplements, lifestyle changes, and prokinetics is needed to make SIBO go away forever. - How is hydrogen-dominant SIBO treated?
Hydrogen-dominant SIBO is usually treated with antibiotics like Rifaximin. These medications target the bacteria that produce hydrogen gas in the small intestine. Combining rifaximin with other antibiotics and supplements can relieve SIBO symptoms and prevent them from returning. The patient may also need to go on a special diet for lasting results. - What are the treatment options for methane-dominant SIBO?
To treat methane-dominant SIBO, patients are often prescribed a combination of antibiotics, like Rifaximin and Neomycin or Flagyl, to reduce methane production and relieve symptoms like bloating and constipation. Herbal protocols can also be used alone or together with medications. While methane-dominant SIBO is challenging to treat, it is not impossible. A treatment plan that includes antibiotics, supplements, prokinetics, and dietary changes can help you get rid of methane-dominant SIBO. - Is there a specific treatment for hydrogen sulfide SIBO?
No, there are no specific antibiotics recommended for this type of SIBO. But you can treat it with antibiotics, supplements, and prokinetics, along with phases of dietary changes. - Are prokinetics used in the treatment of SIBO? If so, how?
SIBO treatment plans typically include the use of prokinetics while and after taking antibiotics. They ensure the small intestine clears its contents regularly, improving gut motility and preventing SIBO from coming back. The most commonly used prokinetics are Prucalopride, Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN), and Low-Dose Erythromycin. You can also consider natural prokinetics, like Iberogast and ginger. SIBO patients often need to continue using prokinetics for an extended period after treatment to restore normal gut function. - What dietary approaches are recommended for hydrogen-dominant SIBO?
Health providers often recommend a low-FODMAP diet for those with hydrogen-dominant SIBO to reduce the fermentation of carbohydrates and the production of hydrogen gas. While this is a common approach, it is not an effective solution for SIBO. That’s why we use a phase-specific customized protocol that focuses on feeding the body (not starving the bacteria) to eliminate SIBO. - Can certain foods exacerbate methane-dominant SIBO symptoms?
Yes, foods that slow gut motility or are rich in fermentable substrates can worsen symptoms of methane-dominant SIBO. These include red meats, dairy products, high-fat meals, and fibrous vegetables. Note that these foods don’t affect patients the same. While some can eat them without any issues, others can experience increased symptoms. - What is the impact of consuming simple sugars during SIBO treatment?
Consuming simple sugars can promote the growth of the bacteria in the small intestine and undo the effects of your SIBO treatments. This can prolong your symptoms and make it difficult to recover from the condition. - Can elemental diets be effective for SIBO? In what cases?
Yes, elemental diets can be very effective, especially in severe cases of SIBO. They provide you with predigested nutrients that are easy to absorb by the body, starving the bacteria in the small intestine. However, treating SIBO with elemental diets can be a lengthy and complex process. Plus, these bacteria can form biofilms and hibernate when you begin an elemental diet and reactivate when foods are later reintroduced, bringing back the symptoms. - Is intermittent fasting (IF) beneficial for SIBO?
Intermittent fasting can help people with SIBO when done correctly. It stimulates the migrating motor complex, which propels undigested food residue out of the intestinal tract and improves gut motility. Intermittent fasting also gives the small intestine more time to fully break down food, leaving little or nothing for bacteria to feed on. The problem with intermittent fasting is that many people overeat during the eating window, which can lead to the same issues it intended to solve. So, yes, intermittent fasting can help deal with SIBO symptoms when done under the guidance of a health professional. - What supplements are beneficial for managing SIBO?
There are many supplements that can help you relieve SIBO symptoms, treat the condition, and prevent it from returning. A good example is Oregano oil, which can combat the growth of bacteria, reduce inflammation, and aid nutrient absorption. - Should you take any supplements while taking antibiotics for SIBO?
Using supplements while taking antibiotics for SIBO can improve your digestion, tackle biofilm, restore digestive function, and support mucosal health. - What helps with bloating/distension from SIBO?
A low-FODMAP diet can help reduce bloating and distension from SIBO. You can also try anti-spasmodic medications, supplements like peppermint oil and activated charcoal, stress-relief techniques, and any physical activities that stimulate gut motility. - What do people do to manage SIBO symptoms like shortness of breath, joint pain, and headaches?
To relieve SIBO symptoms, most people first address the root cause of the condition. They will then begin to take medications and anti-inflammatory supplements to stop the growth of bacteria. Many patients also engage in several relaxation activities like yoga and meditation and do gentle exercises to improve their overall health. - Do you get knee/joint pain during SIBO treatment?
Yes, it’s common for SIBO patients to experience knee or joint pain during treatment due to die-off reactions (Herxheimer reactions). - Which probiotics feed methane SIBO (IMO), and which ones help?
If you have methane-dominant SIBO, you need to avoid any probiotics containing prebiotics like inulin because they can feed the bacteria in the small intestine and worsen your symptoms. However, probiotics with strains like Lactobacillus reuteri and Bifidobacterium infantis can be taken after treatment to restore your gut health. - When do you start feeling better once taking antibiotics for SIBO?
Your symptoms may start to improve a few days after taking antibiotics for SIBO. But at times, it may take several weeks to notice any improvement. - What do you do if your SIBO is not responding to any antibiotic treatment?
If your symptoms don’t subside after taking antibiotics, you may want to go for another test to be sure SIBO is what you have and consider a different treatment plan, including dietary changes. If your current physician has limited ideas or no solutions at all, it may be time to seek a second opinion. Make sure to discuss the dietary, antibiotic, prokinetic, and supplement protocols used with your new health provider and be ready to try complementary or alternative treatments, like herbal antimicrobials, or address underlying conditions that may be causing SIBO, such as gut motility problems. - Does SIBO come back after the antibiotics? How do I prevent SIBO from coming back?
SIBO may come back after antibiotic treatment if the root cause of the condition, like gut motility problems or dietary habits, is not resolved. To prevent this, you need to manage your diet, ensure proper gut motility, use prokinetics, or follow a phased diet for a long time after treatment. - What are the next steps after taking the antibiotics for SIBO?
Once you’ve completed your antibiotics for SIBO, the next step is to reassess your symptoms to see if they have improved. If yes, you need to do follow-up tests to be sure the treatment worked. After a while, you can start introducing new foods back to your diet and use prokinetics and supplements to support your gut health and prevent SIBO from returning. - What works better for SIBO, herbs or antibiotics?
Whether herbs or antibiotics work better for SIBO depends on the individual. While some people find herbal treatments more effective and free from any unpleasant side effects, others recover more quickly with antibiotics. - How often can I repeat a SIBO treatment with herbal antibiotics? Can resistance arise?
When using herbal antibiotics for SIBO, you can repeat the treatment multiple times without worrying about the bacteria becoming resistant. Unlike pharmaceutical antibiotics, which become less effective the more you use them, herbal antibiotics don’t have this issue. - If you have SIBO and gastritis, which should be treated first?
The first condition to treat will depend on their severity and symptoms. However, treating SIBO can also help relieve gastritis symptoms if excessive growth of bacteria is contributing to stomach inflammation. We recommend choosing a coordinated treatment plan that addresses both conditions simultaneously.
SIBO Diet and Nutrition
- How do dietary changes help manage SIBO?
Diets that limit the amount of fermentable foods, like carbohydrates, can help alleviate SIBO symptoms since bacteria in the intestine rely on those foods to survive and thrive. The Low FODMAP diet is often recommended for people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBM). But while this diet can also help manage SIBO, it’s not a long-term fix for the condition. - What are the consequences of not changing my diet during SIBO treatment?
While you may experience temporary relief when treating SIBO without complementary dietary changes, the symptoms often return once you stop taking antibiotics. That’s why people wrongly believe that SIBO is impossible to treat. The truth is that bacteria have a longer lifespan than the typical 7-14 day course of antibiotic treatments. So, you need to understand this and use a laser-focused strategy to eliminate SIBO. In essence, not changing your diet during SIBO treatment will prevent you from fully recovering from the condition, as some foods can continue to promote the growth of bacteria, prolonging symptoms and making other treatments less effective. - Can you share a list of foods to avoid to help manage SIBO?
When living with SIBO, avoid foods containing a high amount of fermentable monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), such as garlic, onions, apples, and wheat. You also need to stay away from lactose-rich dairy products. - Which dietary modifications can help manage methane-dominant SIBO?
Dietary modifications that can help you manage the symptoms of methane-dominant SIBO are reducing how often you eat and avoiding high-fat foods or foods that slow down digestion, such as red meats and dairy products. - What exactly is it in foods that feed the bacterial overgrowth in SIBO?
Foods that support bacteria overgrowth are rich in fermentable carbohydrates, commonly known as FODMAPS. These foods provide substrates (read: snacks) for bacteria in the small intestine to feed on and allow them to grow and thrive, which can cause bloating and discomfort. - What are the go-to foods when you really can’t eat much due to SIBO?
If you can’t eat much because of SIBO, you can go for easily digestible foods, like bananas, plain rice, cooked carrots, and homemade broths. These foods are less likely to ferment in the gut, reducing the risk of feeding the bacterial overgrowth. - Is it harmful to follow a strict ketogenic diet during SIBO treatment?
Yes and no – depending on the type of SIBO and your other conditions. A strict keto diet alone is not always the best dietary approach in most cases because it cuts down carbohydrate intake excessively, which can impair gut motility, worsen your symptoms, and make it difficult to recover from SIBO. - What is the downside of eliminating too many food groups during SIBO treatment?
Cutting out too many food groups in your diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies. It can also reduce the diversity of microorganisms in your gut, which is important for gut health. When you are too restrictive, you can develop fear or dislike some foods or nutrients that are actually good for you. - Why is relying solely on a low-FODMAP diet not recommended for long-term SIBO management?
While a low-FODMAP diet can help you manage SIBO, it does not directly address the root cause of the condition. Eating a low-FODMAP diet for a long period without fixing underlying issues can lead to chronic SIBO, which may cause other problems. What we are saying, in essence, is that a low FODMAP alone cannot help you get rid of SIBO, and if your health provider prescribes only it to treat SIBO, you may want to seek a second opinion. - Should I avoid all types of dairy during SIBO treatment?
Whether or not you can consume dairy products depends on the phase of your SIBO treatment. Avoid them before, during, and shortly after treatment. Later on, you can start consuming fermented dairy products like yogurt and kefir, as they are rich in probiotics that can help balance gut flora. However, you should still limit dairy products containing lactulose and use them sparingly based on your tolerance and condition. - Can skipping dietary fibers help in treating SIBO?
Yes, staying away from certain dietary fibers can help when you have SIBO. However, you don’t have to stay away from all fibers, as some can alter the composition of the gut microbiome, promoting gut motility and preventing SIBO recurrence after treatment. - What dietary mistakes can prolong the treatment of SIBO?
Common dietary mistakes by SIBO patients include grazing, deviating from a structured diet plan, not following a phase-specific diet, and eating large meals that stress the digestive system. All these errors can prolong your symptoms and make it difficult to recover from SIBO. - Can the GAPS diet help treat SIBO?
Yes, the GAPS diet can help you manage SIBO. This diet emphasizes eating nutrient-dense foods while avoiding complex carbohydrates that may be difficult for the body to digest. This can reduce the fermentation of food by bacteria in the small intestine and help heal the gut. However, the GAPS diet alone cannot be relied on as a long-term solution for SIBO. - Is Manuka Honey beneficial for SIBO?
Yes, Manuka honey can help manage SIBO because of its antibacterial effects. But, since it contains a high amount of fermentable substrates, you need to avoid it during SIBO treatment and in the period after. Manuka honey should only be used under the guidance of a health professional. - How do you know what to eat when treating SIBO, and does my diet need to change?
When treating SIBO, you need to change your diet to reduce the intake of foods that feed the bacteria. Your health provider may recommend a low-FODMAP, gluten-free, or specific carbohydrate diet based on your symptoms.
Living with SIBO
- Can Lyme disease be a root cause for SIBO?
While Lyme disease does not directly cause SIBO, it can contribute to the development of the condition. Lyme disease weakens the immune system and slows down the movement of food in the digestive tract, which favors excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine. - Will other health issues go away once SIBO is addressed?
Treating SIBO can help relieve the symptoms of related health issues, like irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome, as it addresses the underlying inflammation and nutrient malabsorption. You can begin to notice changes a few weeks into your SIBO treatment and after it’s completed. - How does SIBO affect hormonal balance?
SIBO can disrupt the connection between the gut and brain, leading to hormonal imbalances. This can have a ripple effect on your body, affecting everything from your mood to metabolism and menstrual cycle. - Does anyone have to wait a few hours to eat in the morning due to gas buildup and digestion slowing down while you sleep?
If you have SIBO, you may need to wait a few hours before eating breakfast to give your body time to get rid of the gas that has built up overnight and alleviate morning symptoms like bloating and discomfort. - Has anyone had depression/intrusive thoughts with SIBO?
Many SIBO patients experience depression and intrusive thoughts due to the impact of this condition on the gut-brain axis and mental health. Imbalances in gut flora and the resulting inflammation can affect neurotransmitter functions, causing mood disorders. SIBO can lead to isolation because of its unpredictable symptoms, and if the condition persists, it can affect your outlook on every area of life. - What follow-up care is recommended after treating SIBO to prevent recurrence?
You need follow-up care to prevent SIBO from returning after treatment. These include reassessing your symptoms, breath testing, stool testing, phased dietary management, and using prokinetics to maintain gut motility. - Is it a mistake to take probiotics during SIBO treatment?
Well, it depends on when you take the probiotics. If you use them before SIBO is resolved, it’s a BIG mistake that can worsen your conditions. Taking probiotics during SIBO treatment introduces more bacteria into an already overcrowded small intestine, which can further upset the bacteria balance and exacerbate your symptoms. - When is the best time to take probiotics during SIBO treatment?
The best time to start using probiotics for SIBO is after treatment. It’s good to take them before or after meals to prevent the ‘good’ bacteria from being killed by stomach acid before reaching the large intestine. - Do you get GERD from the herbal treatment for SIBO?
Although it’s not common, some people may develop GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) when treating SIBO with herbs. This often occurs if the herbs increase the production of stomach acid or affect gut motility. That’s why you should only consider herbal SIBO treatments under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare provider. - Does treating SIBO improve insulin sensitivity?
Yes, addressing SIBO can improve insulin sensitivity by increasing nutrient absorption and lowering cortisol levels. It also enhances glycemic control and reduces systemic inflammation in the body. If you are dealing with SIBO-associated weight gain, losing excess fat can reduce insulin resistance and boost your metabolic health. - How does the presence of Methanobrevibacter smithii affect digestion and bowel movements?
Methanobrevibacter smithii slows down the movement of food and waste in the digestive system and produces methane gas, which may cause bloating and constipation. - Would long-term use of antidepressants cause SIBO, and if so, how?
Yes, prolonged use of some antidepressants can lead to SIBO, as they upset the balance of gut flora and affect gut motility. To prevent SIBO, you need to avoid antidepressants that have anticholinergic effects because they can slow down digestion, creating conditions that favor bacterial overgrowth. - Can SIBO induce emotional dysregulation and irrational thoughts?
SIBO can affect your emotions due to its impact on the gut-brain axis. Discomfort, malnutrition, and systemic inflammation due to SIBO can cause anxiety, mood swings, and irrational thoughts. - What is the connection between histamine intolerance and SIBO?
SIBO can increase the production or release of histamine in the body, which may worsen symptoms of histamine intolerance, like allergies and digestive problems. - Is it common to get a fungal infection after starting herbal antimicrobials?
Yes, many people get a fungi infection when taking herbal antimicrobials for SIBO. This is because herbal antimicrobials can alter gut flora and support fungi growth, especially if they are not selective in their action. - Can PHGG (Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum) cause constipation?
Yes, while PHGG is commonly used to promote gut health, it can lead to constipation if you don’t drink enough water or have underlying issues like slow gut motility.
Engagement and Interaction
- Does anyone use cannabis for treating symptoms of SIBO, and if so, which symptoms and how effective is it?
Yes, many patients use cannabis to relieve symptoms of SIBO, like nausea, bloating, and abdominal pain. Users have also reported that cannabis helped reduce discomfort and boost their appetite. However, the effectiveness can vary from one person to the other. - If my stool is “heavier” and sinking, is that a good sign?
Heavy, sinking poop is a positive sign if you have SIBO. It shows you are consuming a good amount of fiber in your diet. - For those with high Methane levels, how many rounds of treatment did you need, and what diet helped you?
SIBO patients with high methane levels often need between two and three rounds of treatment to get better. This is usually combined with a specialized diet to alleviate symptoms and get rid of SIBO once and for all. - Has anyone with SIBO had mainly diarrhea then, after a period of time, seemed to transition more to constipation?
Yes, it’s common for symptoms of SIBO to evolve with time. This is often due to changes in the gut microbiomes, treatment effects, or dietary modifications. - How do you explain your SIBO to family and friends?
If you have SIBO, you can tell your friends and family that you have a condition where bacteria that normally live in the colon have overgrown in the small intestine, causing digestive issues like bloating, discomfort, and nutritional deficiencies. - What should you do if you suspect you have SIBO?
If you notice symptoms like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, you might have SIBO. In that case, it’s important to see a doctor experienced in SIBO as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment. Not all healthcare practitioners are knowledgeable about SIBO. So, do your research and check reviews for any SIBO provider you are considering before making your choice. - What questions should I ask my doctor to know if they are SIBO literate and have effectively treated other SIBO patients?
To know how well your doctor understands SIBO, ask questions like: How do you diagnose SIBO? What treatment protocols do you recommend? How do you manage treatment-resistant cases? Can you share success stories of previous patients without violating privacy? Do you include SIBO retesting as a standard protocol? What happens after your treatment protocol? How do I prevent recurrence?
Living A Life Without SIBO Symptoms and Recurrence
SIBO is not impossible to treat. With the right knowledge and support, you can eliminate SIBO forever and live a healthy and vibrant life. We hope that this guide has provided you with the knowledge and insights you need to better manage SIBO and improve your well-being. If you suspect that you might have SIBO, don’t hesitate to get tested and look for a health provider who can guide you through diagnosis and help you treat it effectively. At BioIntelligent Wellness, we offer a free consultation and can help you get tested immediately. Take the first step towards beating SIBO today.
