The Small intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition that is common where there is an overgrowth of bacteria is observed inside the small intestine, leading to IBS symptoms like gas constipation, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.
There are three methods to manage SIBO and I’ll outline the pros and pros of each method based on my personal experience.
Antibiotics
The main antibiotic used to treat SIBO includes Xifaxan (Rifaximin). Xifaxan is used primarily for hydrogen-positive SIBO with loose stool or diarrhea as the primary symptoms.
In the event of methane-positive SIBO that causes constipation or slow passage time occurs, Xifaxan is usually combined with an additional antibiotic, like Neomycin or Metronidazole.
The standard course of antibiotics is recommended for SIBO lasts for two weeks.
PROS:
Xifaxan is typically well tolerated and not absorbed systemically; its anti-bacterial effects are mainly concentrated in the intestines, resulting in lesser side effects from antibiotics.
Xifaxan has anti-inflammatory properties on the mucosa of the intestinal
The duration of treatment is shorter when compared with herbal antimicrobials like the duration of treatment for elemental diets.
70%-85% of the time, success rate when normalizing the breath test for lactulose.
CONS:
Xifaxan is not usually insured and may be priced at around $1,000+ for a two-week course
If Neomycin or Metronidazole is added (in cases with Methane positive) patients may experience greater negative side effects from antibiotics.
Two-week courses of varying lengths are often needed
A lot of our clients prefer an approach that is more natural
HERBAL antimicrobiologists
Antimicrobial herbs are a second option to treat SIBO. The broad spectrum of antimicrobial combos have been tested and successfully used.
Common herbs that are used in SIBO treatment include oil of oregano, allicin Neem, and berberine. A variety of broad-spectrum antimicrobial combos have been extensively researched too. We select the most effective natural antimicrobial (or herbal blend) in accordance with our breath tests and the person’s presenting symptoms.
The typical herbal antimicrobial regimen can last between 4 and 8 weeks.
PROS:
Herbal remedies can also treat problems with large bowel bacteria (in conjunction with SIBO) and are more extensive in this respect.
Certain herbal treatments are researched with some of the studies having shown an effectiveness rate equal to, or even better than antibiotics.
CONS:
“Die-off” symptoms could be more important due to the fact that antimicrobial medicines are able to target both the small and large bowels.
The longer treatment duration is more time-consuming, as in comparison to both antibiotics and the elemental diet
A diet restricted to a certain amount is typically advised along with the application of herbal antimicrobials
ELEMENTAL DIET
A liquid diet containing easily digestible powdered nutrients which you drink to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria while providing nourishment to your body.
A diet-based program that is essential to treat SIBO typically lasts between two and three weeks.
PROS:
The most efficient SIBO treatment (80 percent – 90% success rate over 2 to 3 weeks (or 85% – 85% success rate for 2 – 3 weeks, respectively)
The treatment time is shorter when compared with herbal antimicrobials; comparable to the duration of antibiotic treatment
The best treatment option to lower extremely high gas levels. These might otherwise require multiple rounds of antimicrobials, herbal remedies or antibiotics
Anti-bacterial properties that are more broad-spectrum as compared to herbal antimicrobials, antibiotics, and other herbal remedies.
Other conditions are also benefited, including SIBO including Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Cystic Fibrosis and Eosinophilic Esophagitis
It is well-tolerated Some people experience fast relief from symptoms
Can be a welcome moment to unwind from the kitchen and having to decide which dishes to prepare.
CONS:
The typical cost is $400 to $800 for two weeks. The cost is determined by the calculation of your height, age and weight as well as the level of activity. (Remember however that there is no expenses for food during this period and most people spend hundreds of dollars for food in their usual two-week diet.)
It is not permitted to eat solid food for the duration of two weeks and could be difficult to handle psychologically for certain
Some people are not awestruck by the taste of shakes
A lot of people who attempt an ED by themselves, with no proper guidance, will not achieve success.
What happens after SIBO Treatment?
After completing any of the above treatments In the ideal scenario, we’d like to conduct the breath test to determine SIBO to make sure that the bacterium overgrowth was totally eliminated.
Any successful SIBO treatment strategies should be followed up with preventative measures to improve GI mobility and promote the overall health of your digestive system.
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