What is SIBO?
SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, a place where bacterial levels are normally low. This leads to food fermenting too early, which creates gas, inflammation, and impaired nutrient absorption. SIBO is a common but often underdiagnosed cause of digestive problems such as bloating, IBS-like symptoms, and chronic fatigue.
Common symptoms of SIBO
Typical symptoms include bloating (especially after meals), gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, and sometimes skin issues. Many also experience brain fog and low energy, which may be linked to inflammatory processes and impaired nutrient absorption.
What causes SIBO?
SIBO often develops when the gut’s natural motility (MMC – migrating motor complex) is impaired. This can be due to stress, low stomach acid, enzyme insufficiency, prior infections, or long-term use of antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors. A diet high in fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) can also aggravate the condition.
A targeted formulation: FODMAP & SIBO Plus+
- FODMAP & SIBO Plus+ is an advanced combination product designed to address several of the core mechanisms behind SIBO at the same time. It contains:
- Betaine HCL, which supports stomach acid, crucial for breaking down food and preventing bacterial overgrowth.
- DigeZyme® enzymes help efficiently break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, reducing the substrate for bacterial fermentation.
- Saccharomyces boulardii (Lynside® PRO SCB) is a well-studied probiotic yeast that can inhibit pathogenic bacteria and support the gut barrier without itself contributing to bacterial overgrowth.
- Oregano extract and berberine have documented antimicrobial properties and are often used in protocols against SIBO.
- Ginger supports intestinal motility (MMC), a key factor in preventing relapse.
- Zinc supports mucosal function and the immune system.
- Vitamins D3 and B12 support the immune system and energy metabolism—areas often affected in SIBO.
Complementary supplements – a complete SIBO protocol
Digestive Enzymes Plus+ and extra Betaine HCL can further enhance the breakdown of food and reduce the risk of fermentation in the small intestine. Low stomach acid is one of the most common underlying causes of SIBO.
NAC (N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine) may help disrupt biofilms—structures bacteria use to protect themselves—making antimicrobial agents more effective.
Oregano Extract and Olive Leaf Extract are potent plant-based antimicrobials that may help reduce bacterial overgrowth.
Saccharomyces boulardii Plus+ and Bacillus coagulans support a balanced microbiota and can help restore the gut environment after treatment.
L-glutamine is an important building block for the intestinal mucosa and may help repair “leaky gut,” which often occurs with SIBO.
Magnesium M4 and Electrolytes Plus+ support the nervous system and gut motility, which is crucial to prevent stagnation in the small intestine.
NRC for NAD+ and CoQ10 support mitochondrial energy, which is important since many with SIBO suffer from fatigue and reduced cellular function.
Quercetin Dihydrate and Boswellia Serrata may help calm inflammation in the gut.
Activated Charcoal (NORIT®) can be used temporarily to bind gases and toxins, which may reduce symptoms such as bloating.
Four core principles for SIBO
An effective SIBO protocol rests on four core principles: reduce bacterial overgrowth, improve digestion, restore the gut barrier, and normalize gut motility. FODMAP & SIBO Plus+ addresses several of these at once, making it a central product in an integrated protocol.
Protocol
Contact us at [email protected] if you would like our complete SIBO protocol. It’s completely free.
