Supplements for SIBO

A number of supplements have been reported to be helpful in treating SIBO and related conditions. Here are some of the most popular according to my research.

Vitamin B12

One of the most commonly reported deficiencies in SIBO is that of B12, which is utilised by the bacteria. When bacteria take up the vitamin, it is partially metabolized to inactive analogues, which compete with normal vitamin B12 binding and absorption. B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, GI problems and neurological symptoms. One brand that is recommended for those on SCD is New Beginnings Methyl-Mate – request the nasal spray topper when ordering as this is one of the most effective means of absorbing the vitamin.

Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil is a great source of fat soluble vitamins A and D, both of which are often depleted in individuals with SIBO. Vitamin A not only plays an important role in vision, bone growth, reproduction, cell division, and cell differentiation, but also helps to make white blood cells that destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption and modulates cell growth, neuromuscular and immune function, and reduction of inflammation.

Enteric Coated Peppermint

Peppermint is useful in managing SIBO for two reasons. First, it is an antibiotic and will therefore help to kill off harmful bacteria. Peppermint is also an antispasmodic, which may be helpful for individuals with conditions such as gastroparesis, which can contribute to SIBO. Make sure you buy enteric coated capsules, so that they are released in the small intestine.

Digestive Enzymes

Both pancreatic and broad-spectrum enzymes are thought to be useful in helping to manage SIBO. The bacteria in your small intestine can destroy the enzymes that are naturally produced by the body, decreasing their availability to digest food. The ability to produce enzymes can also be reduced in SIBO patients due to damage to their digestive tract. Taking digestive enzymes such as Nutricology pancreatic enzymes or Enzymetica Digest Spectrum before a meal should aid in digestion, leaving less food to ferment and feed the bacteria.

Fish Oil

Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These help to support cardiovascular, neurological, and immune regulatory mechanisms. Omega-3 fatty acids also act as an anti-inflammatory, which may be useful for individuals whose digestive tract has become inflamed as a result of damage from SIBO.

Betaine HCl

Hydrochloric acid is produced by the stomach to break down food. However, many individuals with SIBO are actually low on stomach acid, which increases the amount of undigested food available to bacteria in the small intestine. As well as breaking down food, hydrochloric acid also acts as a barrier, killing many of the potentially harmful micro-organisms in our food.

Magnesium

Magnesium levels are often low in individuals with SIBO, and this may be a particular problem for those experiencing constipation. Magnesium plays an important role in bone formation, nerve and muscle health, enzyme functioning and regulating the immune system.

Taurine

Taurine helps to keep toxins from the digestive tract from passing into the blood, and also plays a role in releasing toxins from cells. This may be useful in individuals with a build-up of toxins that have been released by bad bacteria. Taurine is also a key ingredient of bile, which in turn is needed for fat digestion, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins as well as the control of cholesterol serum levels in the body. It also regulates the use of calcium, potassium and sodium, as well as helping to maintain cell membrane integrity.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract is a powerful anti-pathogenic, and are useful in fighting bacteria, virus, parasites and fungi. It is particularly useful as no organism has yet been found to be able to build up a resistance to grapefruit seed extract, making it ideal for long-term use.

Herbal antibiotics

Some traditional herbal antibiotics include:

Garlic

Cinnamon

Oregano

Goldenseal, Oregon Grape, Barberry, Coptis (berberine containing herbs)