Have you Heard of SIBO?

What Is SIBO?

SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, and it may be the root cause of symptoms in up to 60% of people diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)¹.

If you suffer from bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhoea, there’s a chance that SIBO could be part of the problem.

What Happens in SIBO?

As the name implies, SIBO occurs when bacteria overgrow in the small intestine—a place they don't typically inhabit in large numbers. These aren't "bad" bacteria; they’re usually found in the large intestine. But when they show up too early in the digestive tract, they start to ferment food too soon, especially carbohydrates.

Carbohydrate-rich foods (even healthy ones like fruits and vegetables) can trigger symptoms in SIBO because they contain fermentable sugars and fibres. The fermentation process produces gas, leading to:

• Bloating

• Belching

• Flatulence

• Heartburn

• Abdominal pain

These gases can also irritate the gut lining, causing increased intestinal permeability (aka "leaky gut"), which allows undigested food and bacteria to cross into the bloodstream and trigger immune responses.

More Than Just Bloating

Left untreated, SIBO can become a systemic issue, leading to:

• Food sensitivities

• Fatigue

• Brain fog and headaches

• Skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rashes

• Joint pain and muscle aches

• Depression and anxiety

• Nutrient deficiencies (especially B12, iron, magnesium, and vitamin D)

Is It Always SIBO?

Not necessarily. Other conditions can mimic SIBO symptoms, such as:

• Low stomach acid

• Gallbladder dysfunction

• Pancreatic enzyme insufficiency

• Coeliac disease

• Gut nerve damage

• Adhesions or scarring from surgery

That’s why it’s essential to get a thorough assessment before jumping to conclusions.

How Can a Naturopath Help?

A naturopathic approach to SIBO focuses on targeted diet and herbal medicine to reduce bacterial overgrowth and heal the gut.

Step 1: Address the Diet (FODMAPs)

Removing FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) from the diet can quickly reduce symptoms. But this isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” diet, and many people struggle to do it effectively on their own.

A naturopath or nutritionist can help tailor the plan to your individual needs, making it more sustainable and effective.

Step 2: Herbal Medicines

Certain herbal antimicrobials are as effective as antibiotics in treating SIBO. Additionally, herbs can support:

• Stomach acid production

• Gallbladder function

• Intestinal motility

These are key to preventing relapse and promoting lasting recovery.

Step 3: Correct Nutritional Deficiencies

SIBO often interferes with nutrient absorption. A naturopath can help identify and correct deficiencies in iron, B12, magnesium, calcium, folate, and more to support overall healing and energy.

The Long-Term Goal

The ultimate aim is not just symptom relief—it’s building a personalised plan for long-term digestive health and resilience.

With the right support and treatment plan, you can reclaim your energy, digestion, and quality of life.

References:

• Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Case-Control Studies. Am J Gastroenterol. 2020 Feb;115(2):190-201. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000000504. PMID: 31913194.
• Chedid V, Dhalla S, Clarke JO, Roland BC, Dunbar KB, Koh J, Justino E, Tomakin E, Mullin GE. Herbal therapy is equivalent to rifaximin for the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Glob Adv Health Med. 2014 May;3(3):16-24. doi: 10.7453/gahmj.2014.019. PMID: 24891990; PMCID: PMC4030608.