Diet and SIBO

One of the most common misconceptions found on the internet is that diet alone can effectively cure SIBO. While reducing the amount of fermentable carbohydrates coming into a gut with SIBO can help to reduce symptoms, it does not (in my experience) cure SIBO. Treatment of the overgrowth directly, or of underlying causes, if often needed. Sticking to a strict low fermentation diet for a prolonged period of time can have a number of consequences that are worth considering:

1) Alterations (often not for the better) of your large intestine microbiome
2) Increased difficulty tolerating these foods down the line (even when SIBO free)
3) Increased food fear and potential for developing a disordered relationship with food or eating (or causing an eating disorder to resurface)
4) Limited social engagement and enjoyment of one of life's main pleasures - eating!

Remember: Dietary modification is a tool, not a treatment - so be cautious about adopting a restrictive diet without first working with a provider who understands their usefulness AND limitations.

Diets that can Improve SIBO Symptoms

There are a variety of low fermentation diets that can improve symptoms of SIBO and can be used at various points in the course of SIBO treatment. These include, but are not limited to:

• The SIBO Specific Diet

• The Low FODMAP Diet

• The Biphasic Diet

• The Low Fermentation Diet

Diet Resources and Trusted Practitioners

• Monash University Low FODMAP Diet App

• The Healthy Gut - Rebecca Coombes

• Vital Food Therapeutics - Kristy Regan, MS

• Rocket Nutrition - Reiko Sudduth, RD

• Eat.Play.Be - Michelle Babb, RD

• Food Logic - Heidi Turner, RD

• Food Sense Nutrition - Danielle VenHuizen, RD

What is the Elemental Diet?

The Elemental Diet is one way to treat SIBO or provide “digestive rest” to people with inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, or other digestive diseases. Treatment courses can last anywhere from 3 days for digestive rest to 14-21 days for SIBO treatment. If you struggle with low weight or have a history of disordered eating, know that the Elemental Diet may not be right for you. Be sure to work with a competent provider to ensure that this treatment appropriate for your case. Though there are many benefits of the Elemental Diet (e.g., efficacy, etc.), there are also many challenges, such as:

• Not eating for 14-21 days!

• Bad taste of the various formulas

• Potential for weight loss

• Adverse effects, such as nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea

• Exacerbation of yeast infections (gastrointestinal or other)

Note: Please be aware that many products advertised as Elemental Diets are not actually "elemental" and often contain whole proteins like whey, pea protein, soy protein, etc.