SIBO - Small Intestine Bacteria Overgrowth

These suggestions are not intended to replace appropriate professional advice.  Please check labels and consult your pharmacist if you take prescription drugs.

SIBO occurs when there is an abnormal increase of the bacteria in the small intestine — particularly types of bacteria that are not commonly found in that part of the digestive tract.

Many nutritionists recommend following the FODMAP Diet to reduce fermentation in the small intestines.  See the chart below.

There is a high incidence of reoccurrence with conventional treatment.  The natural approach is the long game focusing on your diet and rebuilding digestive health.  Take Hippocrates advice to heart: “Let your food be your medicine”.  😊  Think how much healthier you’ll be in just a few weeks!

Diet to Reduce Inflammation and Improve Digestion

• Stay hydrated with 7-10 glasses filtered or spring water.  Chlorine kills good flora.
• Eat foods that are 75-80% alkaline.  Bacteria thrive in an acidic environment. 
• Organic foods are the most healing, free of chemicals and pesticides.
• Have fruits on an empty stomach and allow 20-30 minutes before other foods.
• Have freshly prepared small meals and allow at least 4 hours between meals.
• Eat complete protein no later than lunchtime to ensure digestion of amino acids.  Meat has a slow transit time so keep consumption to a minimum.
• 1-3 tsp apple cider vinegar in water with meals improves digestion & corrects pH. 
• 1-3 tbsp ground flax for fiber, nutrients, and essential fatty acids.
• Cayenne is extremely healing for the intestines and improves digestion.
• Ginger, turmeric, and coconut oil are beneficial.  Try them as a soothing tea.
  

Supplements to Correct Common Deficiencies

• Bio-Strath tablets – B vitamins for improved digestion and stress tolerance.
• B12 – 5,000 mcg sublingual – a common deficiency with S.I.B.O. 
• Vitamin C – anti-inflammatory, reduces symptoms.
• Vitamin D – 8,000 IU for one month then reduce to the upper limit of 4,000 IU.
• Chlorophyll (magnesium) – start slowly and gradually increase to 2-3 times daily – a natural stool softener, cleans and heals intestines and colon. Strengthens peristaltic action to improve motility. 
• Omega 3 fatty acids – promote healing of the digestive tract.
• Probiotic – Living Alchemy Terrain – 3 times daily (change up the times regularly).

Use enough chlorophyll and vitamin C to promote at least 2 easy bowel movements daily.

Special Care for Short Term Use to Enhance Healing & Normalize Digestion

• Serrapeptase –  2 times daily - must be taken on an empty stomach – upon rising or take it if you are up through the night, and again at bedtime.  Allow an hour (or more) before taking any other food or drink (water is fine).  This enzyme can break down the protective biofilm harmful bacteria build.
• Goldenseal has antibacterial and antifungal properties.  In the world of herbalism, it is known as the “king of the mucous membranes”.  Use for 2 weeks, break for one week then repeat.
• Glutamine – necessary for repair of smooth muscle tissue in the digestive tract.  Helps correct pH, improves mood, and reduces sugar cravings.
• Complete digestive enzyme with  betaine hydrochloride.

The supplements listed earlier under common deficiencies are recommended for ongoing use.  Continued use of chlorophyll to keep bowel regular is very helpful.  The dietary suggestions are recommended on an ongoing basis to avoid future problems.

Additional Tips

• Sit and stand tall and avoid restrictive clothing.  Digestion needs room to work properly.
• Dry body brushing daily helps keep the lymphatic system moving smoothly to support detoxification and immunity.  It feels great and leaves your skin glowing!
• Fresh air, sunshine, and movement are the foods of Life.  Breathe deeply into the belly.  Exhale fully.  A clean, well oxygenated system maintains its own healthy balance. 

Keep a journal to track your progress.  Many people find they enjoy improved health in multiple areas.   
Good health happens by design, not by accident 😊

Below is the FODMAP diet which some customers have found helpful to ease uncomfortable digestive symptoms during the healing process: