The term SIBO comes from the English “Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth” which means “Chronic Bacterial Colonization of the Small Intestine”.
This digestive system disorder is characterized by a significant proliferation of bacteria in the small intestine.
In cases of SIBO, the bacterial concentration is greater than 105 bacteria/ml. The main species found are Streptococcus, Bacteroides, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus.
When present in excess, they cause an imbalance of the gut microbiota (or dysbiosis) and increased permeability of the intestinal wall.
Because they consume a large amount of nutrients (vitamins and carbohydrates), they can cause nutritional deficiencies in the host.
In addition, they lead to intestinal fermentation which causes gas and bloating. Digestive problems are therefore common and can be accompanied by fatigue (physical and/or mental) and cognitive issues.
Below, we present 5 natural treatments to relieve the symptoms of SIBO.
Precaution: depending on your symptoms and before taking a dietary supplement, we recommend that you consult a physician.
1. Guar gum
Guar is a plant cultivated for its seeds. Once ground, they yield guar gum, known for its appetite-suppressing action.
Very rich in soluble fiber, it supports digestive health.
On one hand, guar gum improves symptoms associated with SIBO such as diarrhea, flatulence, bloating, and abdominal pain.
At the same time, it beneficially alters the composition of the gut microbiota and rebalances bacterial concentration.
In this study, guar gum produced better results for SIBO than the antibiotic alone.
How to consume it : it can be taken as a dietary supplement, in the form of capsules, tablets, or powder. Guar powder is mixed into a glass of water or used in cooking as a thickening and binding agent.
2. Berberine
Berberine is a plant alkaloid, extracted from the roots and bark of several plants. It is mainly found in goldenseal, Berberis aristata, and barberry. It is known to fight gastrointestinal infections.
Thanks to its antibacterial action, it slows the proliferation of bacteria within the small intestine. Taking berberine also reduces the frequency of diarrhea and abdominal pain in cases of SIBO.
In this study, berberine showed results comparable to administering an antibiotic to treat SIBO.
How to take it: it is taken as a dietary supplement, in capsules or powder.
Warning : it is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
3. Propolis
Propolis has natural antibiotic and antibacterial properties. It is therefore a valuable ally in cases of SIBO.
It improves microbiota composition and fights certain bacteria such as Escherichia coli. Additionally, it reduces hyperpermeability and repairs lesions of the intestinal mucosa, as shown by this study.
How to take it: it is available in capsules, in gummies, in vials, in alcohol-free liquid solution or as a mother tincture.
4. Probiotics
Taking probiotics can be beneficial but only as a complement and/or following an antibiotic treatment. Indeed, because bacteria are already numerous in the small intestine, they should be reduced before taking probiotics.
The strains Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus are useful for improving intestinal permeability and the barrier function of the intestinal mucosa. They help gradually restore a healthy microbiota.
During this study, the intake of lactobacilli reduced abdominal pain, flatulence, gastroesophageal reflux, and diarrhea associated with SIBO.
How to take them : in capsules, tablets, or powder. Choose a natural supplement containing at least 15 billion bacteria.
Also read the What are the best probiotic supplements?
5. Reishi
The reishi is a mushroom native to Asia. An immune booster, it is also antibacterial. It notably inhibits the growth of strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus.
It contains sugars called “ beta-glucans ” that improve the health of the intestinal microbiota. After antibiotic treatment for SIBO, reishi acts as a prebiotic by stimulating the production of beneficial bacteria, as shown by this study.
In addition, reishi has many benefits for mental health. It relieves stress, anxiety, and fatigue that people with SIBO often experience.
How to take it : it is available in capsules, tablets, powder, or as a mother tincture. It can also be purchased dried to make infusions or decoctions.
What is SIBO?
Causes and risk factors
SIBO is a still little-known condition; its exact causes have not been clearly defined. People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, or diabetes seem to be the most affected.
It can also be caused by another condition such as hypochlorhydria (low stomach acidity), biliary insufficiency, or by taking medications.
Finally, excessive consumption of coffee or alcohol, stress, or a diet high in sugars are factors that promote SIBO.
Main symptoms
Among the most common symptoms are:
- digestive issues: bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhea…
- chronic fatigue
- cognitive issues: brain fog, difficulty concentrating…
- nutritional deficiencies in B-group vitamins, in vitamin A and D, in omega-3, in magnesium and in zinc
- weight loss
SIBO symptoms are varied and can affect both the body and the mind. Thus, trying to eradicate the excess bacteria in the small intestine is not enough.
A holistic approach is therefore appropriate through a healthy and balanced diet, regular physical activity, and better stress management. It is important to reduce all factors that promote bacterial overgrowth.
