The Truth About Treating SIBO
SIBO Isn’t Just “Too Much Bacteria” — It’s Not Enough Balance.
If you’ve been told to attack your SIBO with antibiotics, antimicrobials, or strict elimination diets… I invite you to pause...
Because what if the real problem isn’t overgrowth — it’s under-diversity?
Why the Standard SIBO Approach Often Fails:
Most conventional and even functional practitioners focus on killing the “bad bugs” —
Antibiotics like rifaximin, xifaxin - as well as herbals like oil of oregano and berberine accomplish this.
But here’s the truth:
60–70% of SIBO cases relapse.
Because the root issue is never addressed.
The microbiome is not a battlefield.
It’s an ecosystem.
And when diversity is low — from antibiotics, stress, food restriction — the balance tips.
Opportunistic bacteria take over not because they’re invading, but because the terrain has changed.
Killing more bugs just deepens the imbalance.
Think of Your Gut Like a Garden:
In a thriving garden, all species coexist in harmony.
You don’t spray pesticides and expect flowers to bloom.
You nourish the soil. You invite pollinators. You create balance.
Same with your gut.
Stop pulling weeds and start planting what’s missing.
My Own Journey:
I did the killing protocol.
Antibiotics, antimicrobials, low-FODMAP.
It wrecked me.
Fatigue.
Malnutrition.
Autoimmune flares.
Dysregulation on every level.
Why? Because what little diversity I had was wiped out.
My system collapsed under the weight of depletion.
So… What Actually Works?
Step 1: Rebuild Diversity
Targeted probiotics (the right kind, in the right order)
Gentle prebiotics (FODMAPs reintroduced slowly, if tolerated)
Fermented foods (like kefir, kimchi, or sauerkraut — when ready)
P.S. — I know these are often feared in SIBO, but used correctly, they’re medicine.
Step 2: Strengthen Digestion’s Foundation
Support the 5 Core Pillars:
Stomach acid
Digestive enzymes
Bile flow
Motility (the gut’s rhythm)
Mucosal integrity (your gut lining)
SIBO doesn’t show up because bacteria are “bad.”
It shows up because digestion is struggling — and the ecosystem responds accordingly.
Gentle, Personalized Support Is Key
SIBO is not one-size-fits-all.
And the “kill everything” approach? Often makes things worse.
It's time to move away from warfare and toward restoration.
Remember...
Your body is wise.
It’s not broken — it’s just calling for balance.
- Dr. Sara, Gut Restoration Expert
