SIBO: A Functional Medicine Approach in Orlando

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which too much bacteria inhabit the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea (when hydrogen predominates) or constipation (when methane is present), along with issues like malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, and fatigue.

Why Functional Medicine Bridges the Gap

Traditional approaches often focus solely on symptom relief—typically prescribing antibiotics such as rifaximin. While this may address the bacterial overgrowth, relapse is common because root causes can remain unaddressed.

Functional medicine—like what we practice at Healing Alternatives—takes a broader and more sustainable view. It emphasizes identifying the underlying drivers of SIBO, such as impaired motility, low stomach acid, post-infectious changes, or medication effects like proton pump inhibitors.

A Functional Medicine Protocol for SIBO

1. Diagnose comprehensively
   We start with a breath test measuring hydrogen and methane after ingesting lactulose—or glucose—to detect bacterial overgrowth. This noninvasive tool helps us differentiate between hydrogen- and methane-predominant patterns.

2. Remove the overgrowth
   Rather than jumping directly to antibiotics, we may begin with targeted herbal antimicrobials—such as allicin, oregano, and berberine—which recent studies show can be as effective as rifaximin and gentler on the microbiome.

3. Rebalance with diet
   Dietary interventions are a core component. A temporary low‑FODMAP or elemental diet can reduce the fermentable substrate available to bacteria and promote gut healing.

4. Repair and reinforce
   After clearing overgrowth, we focus on restoring gut integrity—repairing damaged lining, replenishing digestive support, and reintroducing beneficial probiotics to rebuild a balanced microbiome.

5. Restore motility and prevent relapse
   Because poor motility is a frequent underlying cause, prokinetic agents or dietary strategies to support migrating motor complex (MMC) function can be critical in preventing recurrence.

Personalized Care in Orlando

At Healing Alternatives, our Orlando-based approach means we don’t just apply a generic protocol—we tailor each step to the individual. Whether it’s adjusting for stress, hormone shifts, food sensitivities, or lifestyle factors, we collaborate closely with you to create a path forward that aligns with your daily life.