SIBO – If your bloating isn't "normal"

Constant bloating, fullness, or digestive problems? SIBO could be the cause.

Many people live for years with symptoms like a bloated stomach, digestive problems, food intolerances, or weight stagnation – and are repeatedly told that "everything is normal."

But often, there's more to it than that.

One possible cause is SIBO – the abbreviation for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine).

In my practice, I regularly encounter this issue. Many affected individuals have already tried numerous diets, tested supplements, or undergone various therapies, without understanding the actual cause of their symptoms.

What exactly is SIBO?

With SIBO, bacteria are present in excessive amounts in a place where they don't actually belong: the small intestine.

Normally, the majority of our gut bacteria reside in the large intestine. However, if these bacteria shift into the small intestine or multiply excessively there, they begin to ferment carbohydrates and other food components already during digestion.

This process produces gases like hydrogen or methane.

The result: symptoms directly after eating.

Typical Symptoms of SIBO

• Bloating (often particularly severe in the evening)
• Fullness after small meals
• Abdominal pressure
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Food intolerances
• IBS diagnosis without lasting improvement
• Weight plateau or unexplained weight gain
• Fatigue after eating
• Brain fog and concentration problems
• Skin problems like acne or rosacea

Many people report that their stomach is relatively flat in the morning but becomes noticeably bloated over the course of the day.

Why does SIBO develop?

SIBO is rarely the actual problem – it is usually the result of a deeper underlying imbalance.

Possible causes include:

• slowed gut motility
• chronic stress
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Low stomach acid
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic constipation
• Dysbiosis
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Previous antibiotic use

That's precisely why it's often not enough to simply eliminate certain foods or to 'fight the bacteria'.

The root cause must be understood.

Why many SIBO protocols fail

Online, you can find countless SIBO protocols, diet plans, and supplement recommendations.

The problem:

Not every SIBO is the same.

Some people primarily have hydrogen-producing bacteria, while others have methane producers. Some also suffer from histamine issues, dysbiosis, fungal overgrowth, hormonal imbalances, or impaired gut motility.

A standard protocol can therefore work excellently for one person and show little effect for another.

The advantage of targeted laboratory diagnostics

In my practice, I work with functional lab tests to pinpoint potential causes more precisely.

Depending on the situation, for example, the following can be examined:

• Gut microbiome
• Digestive function
• Inflammatory markers
• Metabolic products of gut bacteria
• Yeasts and potentially pathogenic microbes
• Hormone status
• Mineral and micronutrient status

This creates a much clearer picture of what is actually happening in the body – instead of just treating symptoms.

My approach to SIBO

I don't address SIBO in isolation.

Often, several factors play a role simultaneously: gut health, nervous system, nutrition, hormones, stress levels, mineral status, and lifestyle.

Therefore, I create individual therapy and nutrition plans tailored to each specific situation.

The goal is not just short-term symptom improvement, but a sustainable stabilization of digestion and overall metabolism.

Do you suspect you have SIBO?

If you suffer from chronic bloating, digestive problems, IBS symptoms, or unexplained complaints, it's worth taking a closer look at the causes.

In my practice, I support you with a holistic analysis, functional lab diagnostics, and a personalized treatment plan.

As an EMR-recognized naturopath TEN, my services are covered by many Swiss supplementary health insurances.

I look forward to accompanying you on your journey to improved digestive health and well-being.

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