Sibo - small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
Bloating, Diarrhoea, Constipation, Pain? It Can Be SIBO....
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which excessive or misplaced bacteria grow in the small intestine, leading to digestive symptoms, impaired digestion, and nutrient malabsorption.
It is increasingly recognised as a major underlying cause of chronic digestive complaints, yet it remains widely underdiagnosed, and it is quite possible that your doctor has never heard of it. Current research suggests that approximately 60–70% of individuals diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may, in fact, have SIBO as the underlying cause of their symptoms.
Common symptoms include persistent bloating (often worsening soon after meals and as the day progresses), abdominal discomfort, excessive burping or gas, constipation and/or diarrhoea, reflux, food intolerances, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies (especially iron). SIBO has also been linked to less obvious, systemic symptoms such as brain fog, fibromyalgia-like body aches, anxiety, and low mood.
I first addressed SIBO during my own health journey after experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms. Recovery was not straightforward, and at times treatment felt frustrating; however, it was absolutely worth it. After around three months, I was finally able to eat foods that had previously caused significant bloating and discomfort. Through this experience, I came to recognise both the complexity of SIBO and the importance of a structured, evidence-informed approach to treatment.
I have since completed SIBO practitioner training with Dr Alison Siebecker, one of the world’s leading authorities in SIBO research and treatment. This training is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and clinically respected SIBO courses available, integrating current research with practical, clinically applicable treatment frameworks.
While some cases of SIBO are relatively straightforward and may respond to a single course of treatment, others require a more nuanced, longer-term strategy with repeated or phased interventions. Treatment is not always quick and does require patience and commitment; however, addressing the root causes and supporting long-term gut function can be truly transformative when symptoms resolve and quality of life is restored.
If you have been dealing with persistent or unexplained digestive symptoms and feel that nothing is helping, I am here to support you. SIBO is highly individual, and a one-size-fits-all approach is rarely effective. My role is to help you identify what is truly driving your symptoms, clearly explain your treatment options, and guide you through the process with evidence-based strategies and realistic expectations so you can feel better and enjoy food again.
