Do you suffer from bloating, gas, diarrhea, or persistent constipation and never find a definitive solution?

It could be SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth). This gut imbalance affects millions of people and is linked to issues such as food intolerances, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic fatigue, and even autoimmune conditions.

In this article, we’ll explain the different types of SIBO, their symptoms, how to diagnose it, and the best treatment approaches—including antibiotics, herbal medicine, diet, supplementation, and ozone therapy.

What is SIBO?

SIBO occurs when bacteria from the large intestine migrate into the small intestine, where they shouldn’t be in large numbers. This causes excessive fermentation of food, leading to discomfort and poor nutrient absorption.

Types of SIBO and Their Symptoms

SIBO is diagnosed through a hydrogen and methane breath test, which measures the gases produced by bacteria in the gut.
(You can schedule your test at our clinic after a medical consultation) @oxyclinic

1️⃣ Hydrogen SIBO
• Symptoms: Frequent diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, and nutrient malabsorption.
• Cause: Overgrowth of hydrogen-producing bacteria in the small intestine.
• Treatment: Specific antibiotics, herbal antimicrobials (oregano oil, supplements), Low FODMAP diet, and targeted probiotics.

2️⃣ Methane SIBO (IMO – Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth)
• Symptoms: Severe constipation, bloating, gas, and hard stools.
• Cause: Overgrowth of methane-producing archaea, which slow down intestinal transit.
• Treatment: Specific antibiotics, personalized Low FODMAP diet, digestive enzymes, and prokinetics to stimulate intestinal motility.

3️⃣ Hydrogen Sulfide SIBO
• Symptoms: Explosive diarrhea with a strong sulfur odor, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
• Cause: Excess bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), which impairs mitochondrial function.
• Treatment: Bismuth (a supplement that reduces H₂S), rifaximin, activated charcoal, and a specific diet (reducing sulfur-rich foods).

 

Integrative Approach to SIBO Treatment

SIBO treatment requires multiple strategies to eliminate bacterial overgrowth, restore gut function, and prevent recurrence.

1️⃣ Antibiotics & Herbal Antimicrobials
• Conventional:
• Specific antibiotics (Rifaximin for hydrogen SIBO, Rifaximin + Neomycin or Metronidazole for methane SIBO).
• Natural alternatives (herbal antimicrobials):
• Oregano oil (potent antibacterial).
• Berberine (effective against hydrogen SIBO).
• Neem and aged garlic (broad antimicrobial action).

2️⃣ Low FODMAP Diet & Nutritional Strategies
The Low FODMAP diet reduces fermentable carbohydrates, minimizing fermentation symptoms. Other effective protocols include:
✅ Bi-Phasic Diet (Dr. Nirala Jacobi) → Strict food control in two phases.
✅ Carnivore or Elemental Diet → For severe, treatment-resistant cases.
✅ Digestive enzyme supplementation → To improve nutrient absorption and reduce fermentation.

3️⃣ Supplementation to Restore Gut Health
• Selective Probiotics:
• Bacillus coagulans (does not worsen fermentation symptoms).
• Lactobacillus reuteri & rhamnosus (for post-treatment recovery).
• Glutamine & Butyrate → To repair the gut lining.
• Natural Prokinetics (Ginger, Triphala, 5-HTP) → To prevent recurrence.

4️⃣ Ozone Therapy: Na Advanced Approach to SIBO
Ozone therapy has shown excellent results in reducing intestinal inflammation, eliminating pathogenic bacteria, and restoring microbiota balance. At OxyClinic, we use:
• Rectal Ozone Therapy → Modulates the microbiome and reduces excessive bacterial growth. Also beneficial for inflammation and leaky gut.
• Ozone Autohemotherapy → Boosts the immune system and reduces inflammation.

Prevention: How to Avoid SIBO Recurrence?

SIBO can return if intestinal motility is not corrected and underlying digestive dysfunction remains unresolved. To prevent relapse:
✔ Correct hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid) with Betaine HCl (personalized to each patient’s needs).
✔ Maintain a healthy eating rhythm, avoiding constant snacking.
✔ Reduce stress, as it directly impacts digestion.
✔ Consider hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which reduces intestinal inflammation and promotes cellular regeneration.

Conclusion

SIBO treatment requires a personalized and integrative approach, combining conventional medication when needed with herbal medicine, nutrition, supplementation, and regenerative therapies like ozone therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

At OxyClinic, we help you identify the root cause of your symptoms and create na individualized treatment plan to restore your gut health in a lasting way.

➡ If you struggle with persistent digestive issues, schedule na evaluation to determine if you have SIBO and start a personalized treatment!