In part 1 of this article, I discussed how common of a problem SIBO is and how it can be officially diagnosed. In this article I will focus on natural therapies I have found effective for treating SIBO.
The most well studied dietary approach to treating SIBO is the LOW FODMAP diet. This refers to a Low Fermentable Oligosaccharide Disaccharide, Monosaccharide, And Polyols). Short chain carbohydrates are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and the goal of the FODMAP Diet is to cut back on or eliminate these readily fermentable foods to reduce both SIBO and IBS symptoms. SIBO sufferers should avoid the following high FODMAPs for a period of four to six weeks while being treated by your health practitioner.
For many of my patients I can resolve their SIBO problem with dietary changes and herbal therapies. Berberine extract and formulas containing antimicrobial herbs such as bilberry, garlic, goldenseal, black walnut, oregano, tea tree oil, and gentian can all be effective. They should be taken for six weeks, or as directed by your doctor.
Restore balance by improving bowel motility by increasing the amount of water and fiber you’re getting. Healthy bacteria thrive on fiber so making sure you’re getting more of it will also improve your gut flora balance. I recommend psyllium, chia seeds, or ground flaxseeds along with 60 ounces or more of water a day to help bowel movements.
Avoid caffeine and be aware of any medications that hinder the movement of foods through your gut(motility) including opioid medications including hydrocodone (e.g., Vicodin), oxycodone (e.g., OxyContin, Percocet), morphine (e.g., Kadian, Avinza), and codeine. Talk with your doctor about alternatives to these drugs and seek out natural pain relief methods. Common acid suppressing medications for acid reflux and other digestive ailments can also put you at higher risk for SIBO. Common brand names include Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, and Aciphex.When you’re suffering with SIBO it’s important to start taking supplements to shore up any deficiencies you have as well as supplements to help restore your healthy gut flora. Intravenous nutrients and oral multivitamin and mineral formulas can help restore the balance. Dietary supplements that heal the small intestine lining such as glutamine, aloe vera, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) examples. The use of digestive enzymes that help breakdown food can be helpful as well. Be careful with probiotics as they can aggravate symptoms for some people with SIBO. I use a probiotic specific for SIBO, known as SIBO Wellness.
Dr. Mark Stengler NMD, MS, is a bestselling author in private practice in Encinitas, California, at the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine. His newsletter, Dr. Stengler’s Health Breakthroughs, is available at www.markstengler.com and his product line at www.drstengler.com
