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SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) Treatment
When Digestive Symptoms Keep Cycling Back
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Does Something About Your Digestion Feel Off?
Many people notice that meals trigger discomfort, energy dips after eating, or foods that once felt fine now cause reactions. These symptoms are not random.
When viewed together, they often point to an imbalance in the small intestine that deserves closer attention.
Understanding SIBO
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth occurs when bacteria that normally reside in the large intestine begin to overgrow in the small intestine. This area is designed for nutrient absorption and typically contains far fewer microbes.
When bacteria are present in excess, fermentation happens too early in digestion. This can lead to gas, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and symptoms that affect the entire body, not just the gut. SIBO is frequently mistaken for IBS. Research suggests that a significant percentage of people diagnosed with IBS may actually be dealing with bacterial overgrowth.
Common Symptoms of SIBO
SIBO symptoms often overlap with other gut conditions, which is why it is commonly missed. Common signs include:
Persistent bloating, especially after meals
Excess gas, belching, or abdominal distention
Abdominal pain or cramping
Alternating constipation and diarrhea
Loose stools shortly after eating
Fatigue or sluggishness after meals
Deficiencies in fat soluble vitamins and other vitamins
Skin concerns including acne, rosacea, or rashes
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Increased food sensitivity, especially to carbohydrates
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What Causes SIBO?
SIBO typically develops when the systems that protect the small intestine begin to slow or weaken. Contributing factors may include:
- Impaired gut motility or a disrupted migrating motor complex
- Low stomach acid, digestive enzyme insufficiency, or bile flow issues
- Scar tissue, adhesions, or prior abdominal surgery
- Post infectious IBS or food poisoning
- Autoimmune or inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions
- Long term use of acid suppressants or repeated antibiotics
- Chronic stress affecting the gut brain connection
When these systems fall out of rhythm, bacterial overgrowth becomes more likely.
Types of SIBO
Not all SIBO presents the same way. Identifying the dominant pattern helps guide care more precisely.
- Hydrogen Dominant SIBO: Often associated with diarrhea, bloating, and urgency
- Methane Dominant SIBO: Commonly linked to constipation, slow motility, and gas
- Hydrogen Sulfide SIBO: Less common and sometimes associated with sulfur smelling gas, abdominal pain, and fatigue
Knowing which type is present helps avoid approaches that may worsen symptoms.
Why SIBO Often Comes Back
SIBO is known for its high recurrence rate. This does not mean it cannot be addressed. It means lasting improvement requires more than reducing bacterial overgrowth.
When motility, digestion, nutrient status, and nervous system regulation are not addressed, symptoms often return. Long term care focuses on restoring the underlying terrain that allowed SIBO to develop.
How We Address Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
Treating SIBO requires more than simply reducing bacterial overgrowth. Our approach focuses on restoring digestive rhythm and resilience so your body can digest, absorb, and clear more effectively. Care is personalized and paced to your needs, and often unfolds in phases:
Phase 1: Reducing Inflammation and Supporting Digestion
Foundational support to calm irritation, strengthen digestive function, and prepare the gut environment for healing.Phase 3: Repairing Motility and Restoring the Migrating Motor Complex
Supporting the coordinated movement of the small intestine to reduce stagnation and promote healthy flow.Phase 2: Targeted Herbal Antimicrobials or Botanicals (if indicated)
When appropriate, we use precisely selected botanical agents to address bacterial patterns without unnecessary harshness.Phase 4: Rebuilding Gut Terrain
Reestablishing a balanced ecosystem with whole-food nutrition, probiotics, and long-term strategies that support resilience.
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Memberships for Ongoing Support
If you are looking for continued guidance as your health improves, memberships offer care that evolves over time. This option supports regular check-ins, adjustments, and long-term healing across systems, not just symptom management.
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