Sibo
SIBO is one of the most common causes of IBS symptoms — bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and altered bowel habits. Up to 80% of IBS members test positive for SIBO when properly evaluated. Yet most gastroenterologists don't routinely test for it.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth occurs when bacteria that belong in the large intestine colonize the small intestine, producing hydrogen or methane gas that causes bloating, pain, and nutrient malabsorption. Signal-Based Medicine™ evaluates not just the overgrowth itself but the underlying motility dysfunction, immune compromise, or structural factors that allowed it to develop.
Symptoms
- Bloating (often severe, worsening throughout the day)
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Excessive gas
- Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating
- Nausea
- Food intolerances (especially FODMAPs)
- Nutrient deficiencies (B12, iron, fat-soluble vitamins)
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Skin issues (rosacea, acne)
Root Causes
SIBO isn't a random infection — it's a motility problem. Your small intestine has a 'cleaning wave' called the migrating motor complex (MMC) that sweeps bacteria downward between meals. When the MMC is impaired — from food poisoning, hypothyroidism, medications, or nerve damage — bacteria migrate upward and colonize where they don't belong. Killing the bacteria without fixing the MMC is why SIBO has a 50%+ recurrence rate.
Testing
- SIBO breath test (hydrogen and methane)
- GI-MAP comprehensive stool analysis
- Thyroid panel
- Organic acids test
- Zonulin (intestinal permeability)
- KureBioMap™ assessment
Treatment Approach
We treat the overgrowth AND the underlying cause. Antimicrobial protocols clear the bacteria, prokinetic support restores MMC function, and root cause treatment (thyroid, motility, structural) prevents recurrence — all guided by KureBioMap™ data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my SIBO keep coming back? SIBO recurs in over 50% of cases because most treatment only kills the bacteria without addressing why they overgrew: impaired motility, low stomach acid, thyroid dysfunction, or structural issues. We address all layers.
What's the difference between hydrogen and methane SIBO? Hydrogen-dominant SIBO tends to cause diarrhea. Methane-dominant (technically IMO — intestinal methanogen overgrowth) tends to cause constipation. Some members have both. Treatment differs based on the type.
Can I cure SIBO with diet alone? Diet (like low-FODMAP) manages symptoms but doesn't cure SIBO. It starves the bacteria temporarily, reducing gas production. Effective treatment requires antimicrobials and prokinetic support to clear bacteria and prevent recurrence.
Is SIBO connected to other conditions? Yes. SIBO is connected to rosacea, restless leg syndrome, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions, and nutrient deficiencies. It's rarely an isolated problem — which is exactly why Signal-Based Medicine evaluates the whole system.
