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🔬 What is SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

SIBO means Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, that is, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.

In short, it is a situation where bacteria that normally should predominantly stay in the large intestine (colon) begin to colonize the small intestine — an area where, physiologically, the number of bacteria should be low.

🧠 What normally happens in the small intestine

Under normal conditions, the small intestine contains very few bacteria because:

  • gastric acids destroy them,
  • bile and pancreatic enzymes limit their proliferation,
  • intestinal movements (motility) constantly "sweep" them toward the colon.

Key idea: SIBO occurs when natural "barriers" (acid, bile, motility) weaken and bacteria reach places where there shouldn’t be many.

⚠️ Why SIBO occurs

SIBO can occur when protective mechanisms no longer function properly. Common causes:

  • slow digestion,
  • low gastric acid,
  • motility disorders (for example after digestive infections, in diabetes or chronic stress),
  • abdominal surgeries,
  • prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, esomeprazole).

In these situations, bacteria migrate and multiply in the small intestine, and excessive fermentation can lead to digestive and systemic symptoms.

🦠 Common symptoms in SIBO

  • bloating after meals (sometimes extreme, abdomen “inflated” like a balloon),
  • gas, belching, bad breath,
  • abdominal discomfort or pain,
  • soft stools or alternating diarrhea/constipation,
  • fatigue and mental fog (“brain fog”),
  • possible nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12, iron, magnesium).

🌿 Indicative natural protocol for SIBO (2 phases)

Note: The protocol below is indicative and should be individually adapted (especially if there are ongoing treatments, chronic diseases, or persistent symptoms).

Phase 1 – Antimicrobial (4–6 weeks)

Purpose: reducing bacterial load.

  • Berberine 500 mg, 2–3 times/day, after meals
  • Can be combined with: oregano extract, neem, or allicin (garlic) for a synergistic effect
  • Temporarily avoid fermentable foods (fruits, vegetables) and fermented foods (kefir, yogurt, pickles, etc.)

Phase 2 – Recovery (2 weeks)

Purpose: restoring digestion and intestinal motility.

  • adapted probiotic,
  • digestive support: pancreatic enzymes + ginger (for motility),
  • balanced diet: regular meals, breaks between them (no frequent snacks),
  • Zeolit Spectrum, 3 capsules in the morning and 3 in the evening: start with 1 capsule on the first day and increase by one capsule each day. Drink 2 liters of water daily.

⚠️ Warning

Berberine may interact with some medications (antidiabetics, anticoagulants) and is not recommended during pregnancy or for people with severe liver conditions.

Always consult a specialist before use, especially if you are on chronic treatment or have significant symptoms.


This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical consultation.