What Foods Should I Eat With SIBO?

What foods to eat and avoid with SIBO? This is a common question we hear in clinic, but the truth is there is no fixed answer.

The 5 recognised dietary approaches to manage SIBO symptoms

Low FODMAP, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD), the SIBO Specific, Fast Track and the Bi-phasic diet. It is important to note that these diets are not treatments for SIBO, as diet alone cannot resolve this condition. Except, of course, for the elemental diet which is a very specialised liquid diet followed for 2 to 3 weeks – it simply feeds you but completely starves the bacteria causing the symptoms.

Choosing which diet you are going to follow depends on many factors

Can you do it? Are you getting the support from your practitioner to be able to make the right diet and food choices?

The type of bacteria you have may prefer one type of carbohydrate than another, which can make some diets more or less successful for you. The timings of your dietary choice are also important in the context of the SIBO plan. The current thinking is to be a little more relaxed during treatment and stricter afterwards. The length of time you need to be strict varies depending on progress and symptoms, even after treatment.

So frustrating though it is to not be able to say “just do this diet for x amount of time“, careful consideration and reflection on symptoms and progress will all help a practitioner to be able to guide you to the right choice for you.

If you are struggling with symptoms such as bloating, discomfort, fatigue, diarrhoea, and/or constipation, OR you suspect you may have SIBO you can book a FREE 10-minute discovery call with one of our specialist practitioners to find out how we can support you.

FAQs

Q1. What should I eat if I have SIBO?

There is no single SIBO diet. There are approximately five dietary approaches used in SIBO management: low FODMAP, Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD), SIBO-Specific Diet, Fast Track Diet, and the Bi-phasic Diet. The right approach depends on your SIBO type, symptoms, treatment phase, and individual tolerances. Your practitioner will recommend the most appropriate dietary approach as part of your personalised programme.

Q2. Can diet alone treat SIBO?

Diet alone cannot eradicate SIBO — with one exception. The elemental diet is a special liquid diet followed for 2–3 weeks that provides pre-digested nutrients. It feeds you but starves the bacteria by removing all fermentable substrates. All other SIBO diets manage symptoms and reduce bacterial fuel but do not eliminate the overgrowth. Targeted antimicrobials or antibiotics are needed for eradication.

Q3. What foods should I avoid with SIBO?

This varies by SIBO type and dietary approach, but generally foods that ferment quickly and feed bacteria are reduced. High-FODMAP foods (onions, garlic, wheat, certain fruits), sugar and refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and fermented foods are commonly restricted during the treatment phase. Your practitioner will provide a specific dietary plan based on your individual case.