The Small intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is an extremely common disorder where the overgrowth of bacteria is observed inside the small intestine, leading to IBS symptoms like gas and bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
There are three methods to combat SIBO and I’ll outline the pros and pros of each method based on my own experience.
Antibiotics
The most commonly used antibiotic in the treatment of SIBO includes Xifaxan (Rifaximin). Xifaxan is used primarily for hydrogen-positive SIBO with loose stool or diarrhea as the primary sign.
In the case of methane-positive SIBO that causes constipation or slow transit times is present, Xifaxan is usually combined with an antibiotic for example, Neomycin or Metronidazole.
The standard course of antibiotics to treat SIBO lasts for two weeks.
PROS:
Xifaxan is typically well-tolerated and is not absorption systemically. Its antibiotic effects are mostly restricted to the intestines and cause 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 as long as the duration of treatment for elemental diets.
70%-85% of the time, success rate when normalizing the breath test using lactulose.
CONS:
Xifaxan is usually not insured and may be priced at around $1,000+ for a course of two weeks
If Neomycin or Metronidazole is added (in Methane-positive instances) patients may experience greater adverse effects of antibiotics.
Two-week courses of varying lengths are often needed
Many of our clients would prefer an organic approach
HERBAL Antimicrobiological
Antimicrobial herbal remedies are another alternative to treat SIBO. The broad spectrum of antimicrobial mixtures have been tested and successfully used.
Common herbs utilized in SIBO treatment are oil of oregano and allicin, Neem, and berberine. A variety of broad-spectrum antimicrobial combos have been thoroughly studied and also. We pick the best natural antimicrobial (or herbal blend) in accordance with our breath tests and the patient’s history of symptoms.
A typical herbal antimicrobial treatment can last between 4 and 8 weeks.
PROS:
Herbal remedies can also treat problems with large bowel bacteria (in combination with SIBO) and may be more extensive in this respect.
Certain herbal treatments are researched with some of the studies having shown an effectiveness rate similar to or higher than antibiotics.
CONS:
“Die-off” symptoms can be more important due to the fact that antimicrobial herbal remedies are able to target both the small and large bowels.
More time to treat, when in comparison to both antibiotics and the elemental diet
A diet that is restricted is usually advised along with the application of herbal antimicrobials
ELEMENTAL DIET
A liquid diet that is comprised of easy to absorb powdered nutrition that you drink to eliminate the overgrowth of bacterial while feeding your body.
A basic diet plan to treat SIBO typically lasts between two and three weeks.
PROS:
The most efficient SIBO treatment (80 percent to 88% success rate for two to three weeks and 85% for the following period)
Treatment duration is shorter compared to natural antimicrobials, similar to the duration of treatment for antibiotics
The most effective treatment to reduce very high gas levels. These could otherwise require several rounds of antimicrobials, herbal remedies or antibiotics
Broader-spectrum anti-bacterial activity than herbal antimicrobials and antibiotics.
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 nearly immediate relief from symptoms
It can be a nice 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 on the basis of an assessment of your height, age and weight as well as the level of activity. (Remember however that there is no cost of food items during this time and most people spend several hundred dollars to eat during their typical two-week meal.)
It is not permitted to eat solid food for the duration of two weeks and could be difficult to handle psychologically for certain
Sometimes, people don’t like the taste of shakes
A lot of people who attempt an ED on their own with no guidance, will not always succeed.
What will happen after SIBO Treatment?
Following any of the above treatments In the ideal scenario, we’d like to conduct the breath test for SIBO to make sure that the bacterium overgrowth was completely eliminated.
The successful SIBO treatment strategies should be followed up with preventative measures that promote GI mobility and improve overall digestion health.