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SIBO
SIBO · GUT HEALTH NATUROPATH GEELONG
Severe bloating that starts within an hour of eating? SIBO could be why — and we test for it.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is one of the most underdiagnosed causes of gut symptoms in Australia. It occurs when bacteria that belong in the large intestine migrate into the small intestine, where they ferment food and produce gas causing bloating, pain, and erratic bowel habits. At The Sana Co. we use the gold-standard hydrogen and methane breath test to confirm SIBO, then treat it with a targeted, evidence-informed naturopathic protocol.
SIBO symptoms that are different from typical IBS
Extreme bloating after eating
Excessive gas and belching
Symptoms worse on a low-FODMAP diet
Distension that appears within 30-90 minutes of eating — even after small amounts of food or water. The bloating is often dramatic, painful, and doesn't resolve through the day.
You tried a low-FODMAP diet, felt some improvement, but symptoms keep returning. FODMAPs feed the bacteria causing SIBO — restriction provides temporary relief without addressing the cause.
You tried a low-FODMAP diet, felt some improvement, but symptoms keep returning. FODMAPs feed the bacteria causing SIBO — restriction provides temporary relief without addressing the cause.
Nutritional deficiencies despite good diet
SIBO bacteria compete for and interfere with nutrient absorption. B12 deficiency, iron deficiency anaemia, and fat malabsorption causing deficiency of vitamins A, D, E, and K are common.
Worsening symptoms after probiotics
Standard probiotics make your symptoms worse rather than better — a common and important clinical clue that SIBO may be present, as you're feeding the overgrowth.
SIBO develops when the gut's self-cleaning mechanism breaks down
The small intestine is normally kept relatively bacteria-free by the migrating motor complex (MMC). When this fails, SIBO develops. Contributing factors include:
Impaired migrating motor complex (MMC) — slow motility allowing bacteria to accumulate | Previous gastroenteritis or food poisoning | Prolonged antibiotic use disrupting bacterial balance | Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) — reduced bacterial killing in the upper digestive tract | Structural issues including adhesions, strictures, or ileocecal valve dysfunction | Hypothyroidism slowing gut motility | Chronic stress impairing digestive function
SIBO requires a specific, structured treatment approach
Generic gut protocols don't work for SIBO. The location of bacteria in the small intestine — and the type of gas they produce — determines the treatment. Our SIBO protocol is specific and sequential.
SIBO breath testing
Lactulose or glucose breath testing to confirm SIBO and identify the type — hydrogen dominant, methane dominant (IMO), or hydrogen sulphide. Each type requires different treatment.
Herbal antimicrobials (Berberine, oregano, neem, allicin) or referral for pharmaceutical antibiotics (Rifaximin, Neomycin) depending on your type and severity.
Lactulose or glucose breath testing to confirm SIBO and identify the type — hydrogen dominant, methane dominant (IMO), or hydrogen sulphide. Each type requires different treatment.
Specific dietary approach during treatment
Lactulose or glucose breath testing to confirm SIBO and identify the type — hydrogen dominant, methane dominant (IMO), or hydrogen sulphide. Each type requires different treatment.
Motility support
Prokinetic treatment to restore the MMC and prevent recurrence — this is the most commonly missed step and the main reason SIBO comes back after treatment.
Once SIBO is cleared, a phase of gut lining repair and microbiome restoration to rebuild a healthy digestive environment.
Gut healing and restoration
Investigating and treating what allowed SIBO to develop in the first place — whether that's thyroid dysfunction, stress, adhesions, or low stomach acid.
Addressing the underlying cause
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