As a Registered Nutritional Therapist (NT) and Functional Medicine practitioner (IFMCP), who specialises in SIBO and complex digestive issues, I often get asked which is better – a general off the shelf plan package or following a specific bespoke SIBO protocol. Many SIBO programmes have
Akkermansia muciniphila, a key player in gut microbiome health, has recently been highlighted for its significant roles in metabolic regulation, gut barrier integrity, and immune modulation. Below is an overview of some of the latest findings and their implications, particularly for conditions like IBS (Irritable
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common but complex gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or a mix of both. While the exact cause of IBS remains elusive, treatment strategies have evolved significantly, particularly in dietary modifications and pharmacological interventions. Here, we
This is a common question and there is no fixed answer. At the moment there are about 5 different SIBO diet choices that can be used to manage symptoms. FODMAP, SCD, SIBO Specific, Fast Track and the Bi-phasic The diets themselves are not a treatment for SIBO as diet alone cannot get rid of SIBO. That is, of course, except for the elemental diet which is a special liquid diet followed for 2 to 3 weeks – it simply feeds you but starves the bacteria.
Can I do the Lactulose breath test if I am lactose or dairy intolerant? Yes you can.
Many people confuse Lactulose the solution you drink at the beginning of the SIBO Breath tests with Lactose. Lactulose is actually a mixture of galactose and fructose so you should be fine to do the Lactulose SIBO breath test if you are intolerant to Dairy.
The main symptoms of SIBO are Bloating, Diarrhoea and or Constipation, Flatulence, abdominal pain and cramps and in some cases reflux, nausea and fatty stool. In fact research shows that SIBO is responsible for up to 84% of cases of IBS.
SIBO is a complicated condition and is also known to be a factor in fatigue, prostatitis, acne roseacea, restless legs, joint pain, weight gain or weight loss, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and many more seemingly unrelated non digestive issues.
A good lab will actually test for both Hydrogen and Methane at the same time.
I have seen many negative hydrogen but methane positive breath tests so it’s really important to test for both so that SIBO isn’t missed.