Bespoke vs ‘Off the Shelf’ Plan – Which is Best for Tackling SIBO?
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.
An Overview of Approaches for SIBO
Many SIBO programmes have similar elements. Essentially, you first want to test that SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), is present. This is typically done via a specialised breath test, taking samples at regular intervals over a number of hours.
And there are also different approaches to each, varying from kill, starve and push-out approaches, using a combination of antibiotics, antimicrobials and targeted supplements. And because SIBO is often the consequence of some other dysfunction or imbalance within the body, – or driver – if this is not resolved as part of your plan, it can increase your risk of relapse and the need for further SIBO treatment.
Root-Cause Investigation
Evidence-Based, Always.
A Truly Personalised Approach
FAQs
Q1. Why is a bespoke SIBO programme better than an off-the-shelf plan?
SIBO varies significantly between individuals — in type (hydrogen, methane, hydrogen sulphide), in root causes (low stomach acid, MMC dysfunction, thyroid issues, adhesions, and more), and in co-existing conditions (leaky gut, candida, parasites, dysbiosis). A single herbal product or generic protocol cannot account for this complexity. A bespoke programme tailored to your test results, SIBO type, root causes, and individual health picture is consistently more effective.
Q2. Do I need to test before starting a SIBO programme?
Yes — testing is strongly recommended before treatment. Your SIBO type (hydrogen, methane, or hydrogen sulphide) determines the correct treatment approach. Treating without testing risks using an ineffective protocol, wasting time and money, and potentially worsening symptoms or missing a co-existing condition.
Q3. What does a bespoke SIBO programme include?
A bespoke programme is built around you. Your SIBO breath test results, your health history, and any other relevant test findings. It typically includes a targeted antimicrobial supplement protocol, a dietary approach matched to you, prokinetic support to prevent recurrence, and nutritional supplements to support gut repair. If antibiotic treatment is appropriate, we will refer to our team of experienced private doctors who specialise in SIBO.
