Understanding SIBO: Pathophysiology, Mechanisms, and Evidence-Based Insights
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which excessive bacteria colonize the small intestine, leading to malabsorption, chronic inflammation, and gut dysbiosis. Unlike the large intestine, which is densely populated with microbes, the small intestine is designed to have relatively low bacterial presence to facilitate nutrient absorption and proper digestion.
SIBO disrupts this balance, causing bacteria to ferment carbohydrates prematurely, producing hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen sulfide gases, which can lead to bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nutrient deficiencies, and systemic inflammation. Studies suggest that up to 80% of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) cases may have an underlying SIBO component, making accurate diagnosis and treatment critical.
Underlying Causes of SIBO
SIBO often results from impaired gut motility, anatomical abnormalities, or dysfunction in the digestive system. Contributing factors include:
- Impaired Migrating Motor Complex (MMC): Dysfunction in gut motility due to vagus nerve dysfunction, hypothyroidism, or neurological disorders.
- Low Stomach Acid (Hypochlorhydria): Stomach acid is essential for microbial control; chronic proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, H. pylori infection, or age-related decline can contribute to SIBO.
- Chronic Stress & Gut-Brain Axis Dysregulation: The autonomic nervous system influences digestion; elevated cortisol levels and vagus nerve impairment can slow motility and impair immune function.
- Food Poisoning & Post-Infectious IBS: Gastrointestinal infections can trigger autoimmunity against interstitial cells of Cajal, disrupting peristalsis and leading to chronic SIBO.
- Dysbiosis from Antibiotic Overuse or Poor Diet: Long-term antibiotic use and diets high in refined carbohydrates encourage bacterial overgrowth.
Comprehensive SIBO Testing in Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe, Wichita, and Lawrence, KS
At EvoHealth Functional Medicine, we offer comprehensive SIBO testing to accurately diagnose and categorize bacterial overgrowth. Our functional medicine approach ensures:
- Accurate Testing: We partner with leading labs that provide at-home SIBO test kits for convenience.
- Data-Driven Treatment Plans: We tailor interventions based on whether hydrogen-dominant, methane-dominant, or hydrogen sulfide-producing bacteria are present.
- Statewide Access: Services are available to patients throughout Kansas and Missouri via telemedicine and in-person consultations.
EvoHealth’s Functional Medicine Approach to Managing SIBO
Unlike conventional treatments that rely on antibiotics such as rifaximin (Xifaxan) alone, EvoHealth Functional Medicine employs an integrative, root-cause approach using a combination of dietary interventions, targeted antimicrobials, gut motility support, and microbiome restoration. Our approach includes:
1. Dietary Modifications
- Low-FODMAP Diet: Reduces fermentable carbohydrates that feed bacterial overgrowth.
- Bi-Phasic Diet & Elemental Diet: Evidence-based dietary strategies to starve bacterial overgrowth while maintaining nutrient intake.
2. Herbal Antimicrobial Therapy
- Berberine, Neem, Oregano Oil, and Allicin: Studies show these botanicals may have comparable efficacy to rifaximin for eradicating SIBO.
- Hydrogen Sulfide-Specific Protocols: Molybdenum and bismuth compounds are used to mitigate hydrogen sulfide overgrowth.
3. Prokinetics for Gut Motility Support
To prevent SIBO relapse, we use:
- Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN): Modulates the gut-immune axis and improves motility (coming soon)
- 5-HTP & Ginger Extract: Naturally enhance the migrating motor complex (MMC).
4. Microbiome Restoration & Gut Healing
- Spore-Based Probiotics: Unlike traditional probiotics, these survive stomach acid and promote gut balance.
- Colostrum & Immunoglobulins: Help restore gut barrier integrity and immune regulation.
- Digestive Enzymes & Betaine HCl: Support digestion and prevent bacterial overgrowth recurrence.
Functional Medicine SIBO Treatment Available Across Kansas & Missouri
EvoHealth Functional Medicine provides advanced, evidence-based SIBO treatments to patients in Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe, Wichita, and Lawrence, KS, as well as the entire states of Kansas and Missouri via telemedicine. Whether you are struggling with chronic bloating, IBS, fatigue, or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, our specialized functional medicine approach can help identify and treat the root cause.
Book a Consultation with EvoHealth Functional Medicine
If you suspect you have SIBO or have been struggling with persistent gut issues, EvoHealth Functional Medicine offers personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
? Locations Served: In-person consultations in Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe, Wichita, and Lawrence, KS, with telemedicine services available statewide in Kansas and Missouri.
? Schedule Your Functional Medicine Consultation Today and take the first step toward optimal gut health!