Blog

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) can be challenging. From persistent bloating and abdominal discomfort to unpredictable bowel habits and fatigue, these conditions can significantly impact your quality of life. For many, managing symptoms can feel like an ongoing battle, made even more difficult when IBS and SIBO occur together.

At IBS Clinics, we understand the complexities of these conditions and the frustration that comes with trying to find effective solutions. That’s why we offer personalised, expert-led care, including an advanced IBS test online, gut microbiome testing in the UK, online consultations and tailored treatment plans designed to address your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with IBS, SIBO, or both, our holistic approach combines the latest in medical research with compassionate care to help you regain control of your health.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. While symptoms vary from person to person, some of the most frequently reported include:

• Bloating: A feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen that can cause discomfort.
• Abdominal Discomfort or Pain: Ranging from mild cramping to more severe pain, often relieved by passing stools or gas.
• Irregular Bowel Movements: These may include diarrhoea, constipation, or a combination of both (known as IBS-M).
• Gas and Flatulence: Excessive gas production can contribute to bloating and social discomfort.
• Mucus in Stool: Some individuals notice clear or white mucus in their bowel movements.

Symptoms often fluctuate and can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes. These unpredictable patterns can make managing IBS challenging and disrupt daily life.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing IBS typically involves ruling out other potential causes of symptoms, as there is no single test for IBS. Healthcare providers rely on a combination of:

• Symptom Assessment: Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms based on criteria such as frequency, duration, and severity, often using guidelines like the Rome IV criteria for IBS diagnosis.
• Physical Examination: A physical check-up may help rule out other conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or coeliac disease.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood and stool tests may be used to exclude infections or other underlying conditions.
• Specialised Tests: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend additional procedures, such as a colonoscopy, to investigate further.

For added convenience, online diagnostic tools and at-home tests are now available, making it easier to begin your journey toward understanding and managing IBS. At IBS Clinics, we offer advanced online testing options and expert consultations, allowing you to receive an accurate diagnosis and personalised care from the comfort of your home.

SIBO

Bacterial Overgrowth

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when bacteria that normally reside in the large intestine multiply excessively in the small intestine. This imbalance of bacteria can disrupt digestion and absorption, leading to a range of uncomfortable and potentially debilitating symptoms.

SIBO can develop due to various factors, including:

• Gut Motility Issues: Slow movement of food and waste through the digestive tract can create an environment where bacteria thrive.
• Structural Abnormalities: Conditions like adhesions, strictures, or diverticula can contribute to bacterial overgrowth.
• Underlying Conditions: Disorders such as IBS, diabetes, or autoimmune diseases can increase the likelihood of developing SIBO.
• Medications: Long-term use of medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may alter gut flora and promote bacterial growth.

The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine affects gut health by interfering with nutrient absorption and producing excessive gas, leading to uncomfortable symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of SIBO often overlap with other digestive conditions like IBS, making it important to recognise specific signs, including:

• Bloating and Gas: Excess gas production due to bacterial fermentation leads to persistent bloating and discomfort.
• Diarrhoea or Constipation: SIBO can cause irregular bowel movements, with some people experiencing diarrhoea, while others deal with constipation.
• Nutrient Malabsorption: Bacterial overgrowth interferes with the absorption of essential nutrients, potentially leading to deficiencies in vitamins such as B12, and conditions like anaemia.
• Fatigue: Malabsorption and digestive discomfort can result in low energy levels and persistent tiredness.
• Unexplained Weight Changes: Weight loss or gain can occur due to altered digestion and nutrient absorption.

If left untreated, SIBO symptoms can worsen over time, further impacting your overall health and quality of life.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective SIBO treatment, as symptoms often overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Breath Tests: The most common test for SIBO involves measuring levels of hydrogen and methane gases in your breath after consuming a sugar solution. These gases are produced by bacteria in the small intestine and can indicate bacterial overgrowth.
• Stool Analysis: While not a primary test for SIBO, stool analysis can help identify imbalances in gut bacteria.
• Blood Tests: To detect any nutrient deficiencies or related complications caused by SIBO.

For added convenience, online SIBO testing is now available, allowing you to complete diagnostic tests from the comfort of your home. At IBS Clinics, we provide advanced breath testing options and expert analysis to help confirm your diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan. Whether you’re dealing with suspected SIBO or looking to rule it out, our team is here to guide you toward effective solutions.

IBS and SIBO

Can IBS and SIBO Occur Together?

Yes, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) often occur together, and their symptoms can overlap significantly. This connection can make it challenging to distinguish between the two conditions without proper testing, but understanding their relationship is key to effective management.

Many individuals with IBS may unknowingly have SIBO as an underlying cause or contributing factor. Research suggests that bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine can mimic or exacerbate IBS symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements. The fermentation of undigested food by excess bacteria in the small intestine can produce gases like hydrogen and methane, which can lead to the hallmark symptoms of IBS.

On the other hand, IBS itself may create an environment conducive to bacterial overgrowth. For example, slowed gut motility, a common feature of IBS, can allow bacteria to accumulate in the small intestine. This interconnection between IBS and SIBO forms a cycle where each condition can aggravate the other, making treatment more complex if not addressed holistically.

Recognising the possibility of both conditions occurring together is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. Targeting SIBO directly with specific therapies, such as antibiotics or probiotics, can often alleviate IBS symptoms in patients with overlapping conditions. At IBS Clinics, we specialise in identifying and managing the root causes of IBS and SIBO, offering a comprehensive approach that ensures both conditions are addressed to improve your overall health and quality of life.

Tests

Test Online

Online testing has revolutionised the way IBS and SIBO are diagnosed, making the process more convenient and accessible. At-home testing kits allow you to complete assessments on your schedule, without the need for repeated clinic visits. These kits are designed to be user-friendly, providing clear instructions and easy sample collection methods. Once completed, your samples are sent to a certified laboratory, and the results are analysed by experts to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Online testing is particularly beneficial for those managing busy lives or who prefer the privacy of at-home care. It ensures you receive the same level of precision and reliability as traditional clinic-based tests while offering the flexibility to take the first step toward managing your symptoms.

IBS and SIBO Test Online

Combined testing options for IBS and SIBO are a comprehensive way to diagnose overlapping conditions. Many symptoms of IBS and SIBO, such as bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort, can be similar, so combined testing helps pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms.

These tests assess for bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine (SIBO) while also evaluating other factors commonly associated with IBS, such as inflammation, gut motility issues, and food sensitivities. By identifying whether your symptoms stem from one or both conditions, combined testing allows for a more targeted treatment plan, ensuring you get the care you need for long-term relief.

SIBO Test

The most effective test for diagnosing SIBO is the breath test, which measures levels of hydrogen and methane gases in your breath after consuming a specific sugar solution. These gases are byproducts of bacterial fermentation in the small intestine and provide valuable insights into the presence and severity of bacterial overgrowth.

Breath tests are non-invasive, straightforward, and can be performed in the comfort of your own home with an online testing kit. At IBS Clinics, we offer advanced breath tests designed for accuracy and reliability. Our specialists analyse your results and provide a detailed report, helping you understand whether SIBO is contributing to your symptoms and guiding you toward a tailored treatment plan.

IBS Tests Online

Online testing for IBS offers a convenient and accurate way to take the first step toward understanding your symptoms. With at-home testing kits, you can complete the process on your own schedule, in the comfort of your home. These tests assess various factors, such as inflammation, gut motility, and potential food sensitivities, providing a comprehensive picture of your digestive health.

At IBS Clinics, our online IBS tests are designed to be simple yet thorough. Once your samples are analysed, our specialists review the results and provide personalised recommendations to help you manage your symptoms effectively. Online IBS testing is a hassle-free, reliable option to kickstart your journey to better digestive health.

Taking the step to test for IBS and SIBO online is an important move toward better health. With our expert support, you can feel confident in your diagnosis and ready to take control of your symptoms.

Treatment

IBS Treatments

Treating IBS requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the symptoms and their triggers. Dietary changes form the foundation of IBS management, with plans like the low-FODMAP diet often proving effective in reducing bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Stress management is another critical component, as the gut-brain connection means that emotional stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help calm this connection and improve overall symptom control.

For individuals with more severe or specific symptoms, medical interventions may be necessary. Antispasmodic medications can relieve abdominal cramping, while laxatives or anti-diarrhoeal medications can help regulate bowel movements. In some cases, probiotics may also be recommended to improve gut health. At IBS Clinics, we create personalised treatment plans that combine these approaches, ensuring each patient receives care tailored to their specific symptoms and lifestyle.

Diet (IBS)

Dietary strategies play a vital role in managing IBS. The low-FODMAP diet, which eliminates fermentable carbohydrates that can irritate the gut, is one of the most effective approaches. By identifying and avoiding these triggers, many individuals experience a significant reduction in symptoms like bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements. Other dietary adjustments might involve balancing fibre intake to address constipation or diarrhoea, ensuring sufficient hydration, and maintaining a nutritionally complete diet. These changes can help support overall gut health and improve symptom control.

SIBO Treatment

Treating SIBO involves reducing bacterial overgrowth and restoring balance to the small intestine. One of the most common medical interventions is the use of antibiotics or antimicrobials, which target the excess bacteria causing symptoms. Probiotics can also play a role in rebalancing gut flora and preventing the recurrence of overgrowth.

Dietary adjustments are equally important in SIBO treatment. A low-FODMAP diet is often used to minimise the fermentable foods that feed bacteria in the small intestine. In more severe cases, an elemental diet—consisting of a liquid formula designed to be easily absorbed—may be recommended to starve bacteria while maintaining nutritional needs. Treatment plans typically last several weeks, with long-term success requiring careful monitoring and adjustments to prevent recurrence.

At IBS Clinics, our expert team combines medical treatments with personalised dietary advice to ensure that SIBO is managed effectively. By addressing the root cause of symptoms and supporting the recovery of gut health, we help individuals achieve lasting relief.

Diet (SIBO)

Diet is a cornerstone of both treating and preventing SIBO. For many, a low-FODMAP diet is a practical starting point, as it reduces the fermentable carbohydrates that bacteria use as fuel. This can help alleviate symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhoea while targeting the underlying bacterial overgrowth.

In cases where symptoms are particularly severe, an elemental diet may be used. This specialised diet consists of a nutritionally complete liquid formula that is easily absorbed, depriving bacteria of the opportunity to ferment food. Once symptoms are under control, dietary plans are often adjusted to include a broader range of foods while still minimising the risk of bacterial overgrowth.

At IBS Clinics, we work closely with patients to develop tailored dietary strategies that are effective, sustainable, and compatible with their lifestyle. By focusing on both short-term symptom relief and long-term gut health, we ensure a comprehensive approach to SIBO management.

With the right combination of medical treatment and dietary support, both IBS and SIBO can be effectively managed, allowing individuals to regain control of their health and wellbeing.

How Quickly Can Symptoms Improve?

SIBO

Symptom relief for SIBO can often begin within a few weeks of starting targeted treatments, such as antibiotics or dietary adjustments. Many people notice reductions in bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort after just 2–4 weeks, though full resolution may take longer depending on the severity of the bacterial overgrowth. Long-term management to prevent recurrence, including dietary and lifestyle adjustments, may take several months to establish.

IBS

Improving IBS symptoms can take a little longer, as it often involves ongoing adjustments to diet, stress management, and other lifestyle factors. Most individuals start to see noticeable changes within 4–6 weeks of following a tailored plan, but achieving lasting relief typically requires consistent effort over 3–6 months or longer, depending on the complexity of symptoms.

Both

When managing IBS and SIBO together, symptom relief can be more comprehensive and quicker, as addressing both conditions simultaneously reduces overlapping triggers. Many people report significant improvements within 4–8 weeks of combined treatment. However, maintaining long-term results often involves continued dietary care, stress management, and periodic monitoring for at least 6–12 months to prevent recurrence and manage chronic aspects of IBS.

By working with specialists like those at IBS Clinics, you can develop a sustainable treatment plan that not only provides faster relief but also helps manage symptoms effectively for the long term.

Once Treated, How Do People Prevent Bacterial Overgrowth from Reoccurring?

Preventing bacterial overgrowth from returning after successful treatment requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. SIBO often recurs if the underlying factors that contributed to its development, such as poor gut motility or imbalanced gut flora, are not addressed. By adopting specific lifestyle changes, dietary strategies, and long-term gut health maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.

1. Supporting Gut Motility
   Proper gut motility is essential for preventing bacterial overgrowth. Slow movement of food and waste through the digestive system can create an environment where bacteria thrive. To maintain healthy gut motility:

• Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga, to promote natural digestive movement.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large portions to reduce the strain on your digestive system.
• Discuss prokinetic medications or natural supplements with your healthcare provider if you have a history of motility issues.

2. Tailored Dietary Adjustments
   Diet plays a crucial role in preventing SIBO recurrence. After initial treatment, continuing with a modified version of the low-FODMAP diet or a similarly structured plan can help minimise bacterial fermentation in the small intestine. Gradually reintroducing foods while monitoring symptoms allows you to identify and avoid specific triggers. Ensuring a nutritionally complete diet, rich in gut-friendly foods, supports overall digestive health.

3. Managing Stress and the Gut-Brain Connection
   Chronic stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis and contribute to motility issues, increasing the risk of bacterial overgrowth. Incorporating stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), can help maintain a balanced digestive system.

4. Maintaining a Healthy Gut Microbiome
   A balanced gut microbiome is key to long-term digestive health. This can be achieved by:

• Taking probiotics or prebiotics, as recommended by your healthcare provider, to support healthy bacteria.
• Including fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, or sauerkraut in your diet to naturally nourish beneficial bacteria.

5. Regular Monitoring and Medical Support
   Since SIBO can recur, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider or specialists at IBS Clinics are essential. Periodic assessments, such as breath tests or symptom reviews, can help detect early signs of recurrence and allow for timely interventions.

At IBS Clinics, we focus on sustainable strategies for long-term gut health. Our personalised care plans include guidance on lifestyle adjustments, dietary support, and stress management techniques to help you maintain a balanced and healthy digestive system. By addressing the root causes of SIBO and empowering you with the tools to prevent its recurrence, we help you enjoy lasting relief and improved quality of life.

Comprehensive Care for IBS and SIBO Treatment Online

Managing IBS and SIBO effectively requires an integrated approach that addresses both conditions holistically. At IBS Clinics, we specialise in providing expert-led, comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. By combining advanced diagnostic tools with personalised treatment plans, we ensure that every aspect of your digestive health is considered.

Our approach begins with precise, evidence-based diagnosis. Whether you require breath tests for SIBO, symptom assessments for IBS, or combined testing to uncover the root causes of your symptoms, our advanced online diagnostic options make the process convenient and reliable. Once we understand your condition fully, we create a tailored plan that may include dietary changes, medical treatments, and stress management strategies designed to work together for optimal results.

What sets IBS Clinics apart is our commitment to continuous support. We guide you every step of the way, monitoring your progress and making adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. Online consultations are available at IBS Clinics, meaning regardless of your location or ability to travel, we are able to help support you. This integrated, expert-led care provides the best possible outcomes for managing IBS and SIBO, giving you the tools to take control of your health.

Helping People Live Symptom-Free with IBS and SIBO

Living with IBS or SIBO can feel overwhelming, but effective management is entirely achievable. With the right care and support, you can significantly reduce your symptoms and regain control of your life.

At IBS Clinics, we’re dedicated to helping individuals break free from the discomfort and limitations of these conditions. Through advanced diagnostics, tailored treatments, and ongoing guidance, we work with you to create lasting solutions that address your unique challenges. Our goal is to empower you to lead a healthier, more comfortable, and fulfilling life.

You don’t have to navigate IBS and SIBO alone. With comprehensive care from IBS Clinics, achieving a symptom-free life is not just a possibility—it’s within your reach. Let us help you take the first step toward improved wellbeing and lasting relief.

Author – Tracey Randell

At IBS Clinics, Tracey Randell, a renowned Nutritional Therapist and one of the few IFM Certified Practitioners in the UK, extends her specialised knowledge and unique approach to managing and treating IBS and other gut-related conditions effectively.

Tracey’s profound understanding of Functional Medicine allows her to connect the dots for complex health conditions, identifying and addressing the root causes to curate personalised and comprehensive health plans for her patients. Her holistic approach focuses on resolving underlying imbalances and optimising gut health, enabling the body to correct other issues and attain overall well-being.

At IBS Clinics, we are dedicated to being your partner in navigating your gut-related health concerns, offering expert care and individualised treatment plans to alleviate your IBS symptoms and enhance your quality of life.

You can read more about Tracey on our About page here.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products and methods mentioned are not a substitute for professional medical advice from a trained healthcare specialist. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Use of the information and products discussed is at your own risk.