Understanding SIBO Relapse and How to Prevent It

SIBO can be a frustrating, recurring issue if the root causes aren't addressed. Even after successful treatment, SIBO often returns due to factors like poor gut motility, low stomach acid, or chronic stress. Let’s explore why this happens and, more importantly, how you can prevent it.

Why Does SIBO Relapse & How to prevent it coming back?

1. Impaired Motility
When your gut isn’t clearing bacteria properly, it often leads to SIBO relapse. This impaired motility is usually due to the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) not functioning correctly. The MMC is like a "clean-up wave" that sweeps bacteria out of the small intestine. Food poisoning and ongoing mould exposure can damage the MMC. Other conditions like diabetes, chronic constipation, and chronic infections can all effect motility of the small intestine ultimately leading to a SIBO overgrowth. 

To support motility while working on root causes, I often recommend:

• PHGG (Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum)

• Magnesium oxide

• Specific probiotics to ease constipation

• Specific herbs to ease constipation like Aloe Vera & cascara

• Meal spacing and avoiding snacking to give the MMC time to work

• Ginger and globe are wonderful prokinetics 

2. Low Stomach Acid
Without enough stomach acid, bile, or digestive enzymes, bacteria can thrive in the small intestine. 

Globe artichoke is excellent for optimizing motility and improving bile flow. For stomach acid support, I suggest targeted digestive enzymes that contain hydrochloric acid (HCL) to aid in proper digestion.

3. Chronic Stress
Stress impacts digestion by reducing stomach acid, bile flow, and enzyme secretion. This creates an environment where bacteria can overgrow. Managing stress is key to preventing SIBO relapse.

meals to allow this "clean-up wave" to do its job, keeping bacteria levels in check.

Retesting
After completing your treatment, retesting is crucial. It confirms whether the SIBO has been cleared and helps determine if your treatment plan was successful. Remember, it's best to retest within a few days of finishing treatment.

Breaking the Cycle

Preventing SIBO relapse involves addressing the root causes, whether it’s impaired motility, mold exposure, low digestive enzymes, or chronic stress. By focusing on these factors and making long-term changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of SIBO returning.

Ready to take control of your gut health? 

I offer a Gut Reset Package that includes testing for SIBO and other gut pathogens. You need to click on the Gut & SIBO package!

Much Love,

Megan