Dr. Ryans' Introduction
As practitioners in functional medicine, we frequently encounter patients struggling with persistent digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, irregular bowel movements, and abdominal discomfort. Often, these symptoms point toward Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)—a common yet frequently overlooked condition characterized by excessive bacteria residing in the small intestine..
Treating SIBO effectively can be challenging due to biofilm formation and the potential for recurrence. Fortunately, evidence-based natural remedies can significantly improve patient outcomes.
- SIBO symptoms like bloating and gas can often be addressed with natural remedies, including dietary changes and herbal supplements.
- A low-FODMAP or elemental diet, along with antimicrobials like oregano and monolaurin, can help reduce bacterial overgrowth.
- Supporting digestion and the migrating motor complex (MMC) through lifestyle adjustments like intermittent fasting and probiotics is crucial for long-term SIBO management.
Table of Content
7 Natural Remedies for SIBO Relief
Here, I share seven clinically supported natural strategies that my practice regularly employs to rebalance gut health.
Adopt a Low-FODMAP Diet
Reducing fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) can markedly reduce SIBO symptoms. A systematic review in 2022 (PMID: 35385923) indicated significant symptom improvement for SIBO patients adhering to this diet.
Short-Term Elemental Diet
Elemental diets provide nutrients in an easily absorbable form, dramatically reducing bacterial growth by depriving them of fermentable substrates. Recent studies demonstrate that a 2-week elemental diet effectively reduces bacterial counts and symptoms (PMID: 33477732).
Herbal Antimicrobials
Herbs like oregano, berberine, neem, and allicin are potent natural antimicrobials. A recent open-label study (PMID: 36475016) showed herbal antimicrobials significantly reduce SIBO bacterial loads without the negative effects associated with conventional antibiotics.
Targeted Probiotic Therapy
Certain probiotics, especially spore-based strains such as Bacillus coagulans and Bacillus subtilis, help rebalance gut microbiota. Clinical research supports their role in managing SIBO and preventing recurrence (PMID: 35568538).
Digestive Bitters and Enzymes
Improving digestion is crucial in managing SIBO. Digestive bitters and broad-spectrum enzyme supplements enhance digestion, thus reducing bacterial fermentation in the small intestine.
Stimulating the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC)
Impaired MMC function contributes significantly to SIBO. Practices such as intermittent fasting, meal spacing (4-5 hours between meals), and vagal nerve stimulation via deep breathing or yoga help restore MMC activity, facilitating natural bacterial clearance.
Monolaurin (Lauricidin®): A Promising Solution
Monolaurin, derived from coconut oil’s lauric acid, offers targeted antimicrobial properties. It selectively inhibits gram-positive bacteria common in SIBO while disrupting biofilm formation. Recent evidence highlights monolaurin’s antimicrobial effectiveness against several SIBO-associated bacteria, making Lauricidin an appealing therapeutic adjunct (PMID: 36319457). For practical insights, consider exploring patient case studies highlighting symptom improvements after Lauricidin supplementation.
Addressing Overlapping Symptoms: Candida & SIBO
It's important to recognize that many patients simultaneously present with Candida overgrowth and SIBO. Addressing both can be critical for successful symptom resolution. Explore our guide to Candida supplements for more insights.
Practical Implementation Tips
Personalized Dietary Plans: Customize your dietary plans in a strategic way based on your response and tolerance.
Comprehensive Follow-Up: Schedule regular follow-ups to with a natural health doctor or qualified health professional to help you track your progress.
- Lifestyle Integration: Emphasize holistic approaches like stress management and adequate sleep to support gut healing.
Health Professional Recommended for Gut Imbalance
Dr. Wellness Answers…
How long does it take to heal SIBO naturally?
Dr. Wellness Answers: "Most patients begin noticing symptom of SIBO relief within 2-4 weeks of initiating natural therapies such as dietary changes, herbal antimicrobials, and probiotics. However, a comprehensive treatment protocol typically lasts between 8-12 weeks to ensure sustained improvement."
Can SIBO resolve without antibiotics?
Dr. Wellness Answers: "Yes, many patients successfully treat SIBO without antibiotics. Natural antimicrobials like oregano oil, berberine, and monolaurin are clinically proven alternatives, effectively managing bacterial overgrowth with fewer side effects."
Is fasting beneficial for SIBO?
Dr. Wellness Answers: "Intermittent fasting supports the migrating motor complex (MMC), which naturally sweeps bacteria out of the small intestine. Short fasting periods of 12-16 hours overnight can greatly enhance gut motility, significantly benefiting SIBO management."
Are probiotics good or bad for SIBO?
Dr. Wellness Answers: "The right probiotic strains can significantly help manage SIBO by restoring microbial balance and gut integrity. Spore-based probiotics, such as Bacillus subtilis, are particularly beneficial and less likely to exacerbate symptoms compared to traditional strains."
What foods should I avoid with SIBO?
Dr. Wellness Answers: "Initially, it’s helpful to avoid high-FODMAP foods like onions, garlic, beans, wheat, and certain fruits. Patients often see rapid symptom improvement by temporarily eliminating these fermentable carbohydrates."
The Author: Dr. Ryan Jones
Dr. Jones holds a Ph.D. in Oriental Medicine and serves as the visionary lead formulator at Med-Chem Labs, Inc. With a steadfast commitment to the integration of science and natural medicine, he has established himself as a foremost expert in the field of holistic health.
