SIBO/SIFO

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth (SIFO) occur when an excessive amount of bacteria or fungi grow in the small intestine, disrupting digestion and causing symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and malabsorption.

While the gut naturally contains trillions of microorganisms, most of them should reside in the large intestine. When bacteria or fungi overgrow in the small intestine, they ferment carbohydrates too early, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and nutrient deficiencies.

At Caring for the Body, we take a functional medicine approach to SIBO and SIFO, identifying and addressing the root causes of overgrowth to restore digestive health and long-term wellness.

Symptoms of SIBO and SIFO

SIBO and SIFO share many symptoms, making proper testing and diagnosis essential.

Common Symptoms Include:

• Bloating and distension, especially after meals
• Excessive gas and belching
• Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating bowel habits
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Fatigue and brain fog
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Food sensitivities and intolerances
• Acid reflux (GERD) and nausea
• Malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron, B12, and fat-soluble vitamins)
• Skin issues, including acne, eczema, and rosacea

Causes of SIBO and SIFO

‍SIBO and SIFO develop when the normal defenses that keep bacteria and fungi in balance break down.‍

1. Slow Gut Motility & Poor Digestion

• The small intestine relies on a process called the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) to clear out bacteria between meals. If motility slows, bacteria and fungi overgrow instead of being swept into the large intestine.
• Common causes of slow motility include:
  • Chronic stress
  • Poor vagus nerve function
  • Thyroid dysfunction (Hypothyroidism)
  • Diabetes or nerve damage

2. Low Stomach Acid & Digestive Enzyme Deficiency

• Stomach acid and digestive enzymes act as natural antimicrobial agents to kill bacteria and fungi before they overgrow.
• Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) is often caused by:
  • Chronic stress
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and acid blockers
  • H. pylori infection

3. Gut Dysbiosis & Prior Infections

• Imbalances in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) create an environment where SIBO and SIFO can thrive.
• A history of food poisoning, traveler's diarrhea, or gut infections can damage the gut and trigger overgrowth.

4. Structural Issues & Surgeries

• Intestinal adhesions, scar tissue, and bowel obstructions can trap bacteria and fungi in the small intestine.
• Surgeries like gallbladder removal, gastric bypass, or appendectomy can increase SIBO/SIFO risk.

5. Immune Dysfunction & Chronic Antibiotic Use

• A weakened immune system fails to regulate microbial overgrowth.
• Frequent antibiotic use can wipe out beneficial gut flora, allowing opportunistic bacteria and fungi to thrive.

Diagnosing SIBO and SIFO

‍Because SIBO and SIFO symptoms overlap with other digestive conditions (IBS, GERD, and IBD), proper testing is crucial.At Caring for the Body, we use advanced functional medicine testing to uncover the root cause.

• SIBO Breath Test: Measures hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacterial overgrowth.
• Stool Microbiome Testing: Assesses fungal overgrowth (Candida, mold, yeast) and beneficial bacteria levels.
• Organic Acids Test (OAT): Identifies fungal metabolites (indicative of SIFO).
• Comprehensive Digestive Testing: Evaluates enzyme production, inflammation, and leaky gut markers.

A Functional Medicine Approach to Healing SIBO & SIFOHealing SIBO and SIFO requires more than just antibiotics or antifungals. At Caring for the Body, we focus on gut healing, microbiome restoration, and long-term prevention.

‍1. Starving Overgrowth (Dietary Interventions)

‍Certain carbohydrates feed bacteria and fungi, so dietary modifications are essential.

✅ Low FODMAP Diet: Reduces fermentable carbs that fuel SIBO.
✅ Anti-Candida Diet: Limits sugar, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates that feed SIFO.
✅ Elemental Diet: A medically formulated diet used in severe cases to "starve out" bacterial overgrowth.

‍2. Targeted Antimicrobial TherapyTo eradicate overgrowth, we use:

• Herbal antimicrobials (berberine, oregano oil, neem, garlic)
• Antifungal herbs (caprylic acid, grapefruit seed extract, Pau D’Arco)
• Biofilm disruptors (N-acetylcysteine, lactoferrin) to break down protective layers of bacteria and fungi
• Selective antibiotics (for SIBO) such as Rifaximin, when clinically indicated

3. Supporting the Gut Barrier & Reducing Inflammation

‍SIBO and SIFO often damage the gut lining, leading to leaky gut and food sensitivities.

Healing the gut barrier involves:

• L-Glutamine & Zinc – To repair the intestinal lining
• Aloe Vera & DGL Licorice – To soothe inflammation
• Colostrum & Marshmallow Root – To restore mucosal integrity

4. Restoring Gut Motility & Preventing Recurrence

‍SIBO and SIFO frequently relapse if motility is not restored. We incorporate:

• Prokinetics (Motility Agents):
  • Ginger, 5-HTP, and Iberogast to stimulate MMC
  • Low-dose Naltrexone (LDN) in some cases
• Vagus Nerve Stimulation:
  • Deep breathing, humming, gargling, and cold exposure
• Meal Timing & Fasting:
  • Spacing meals 4-5 hours apart to allow gut clearance

Take Control of Your Gut Health Today

‍SIBO and SIFO can be frustrating and difficult to manage, but healing is possible with a root-cause approach.

At Caring for the Body, we provide:
✔ Comprehensive gut health testing
✔ Personalized dietary strategies (Low FODMAP, Anti-Candida, Elemental Diet)
✔ Targeted herbal and antimicrobial therapy
✔ Gut barrier repair & motility support
✔ Ongoing prevention to reduce relapse risk

‍If you’re experiencing bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or unexplained digestive symptoms, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation today to start your journey toward lasting gut health!