IBS or SIBO? How a Toronto Naturopath Can Help
New hope for those with IBS? You may actually have SIBO!
Do you often feel gaseous and bloated? Maybe you experience loose stools, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, heartburn, or frequent burping—regardless of what you eat. Or perhaps your digestion has worsened even though you’re eating healthier than ever. If these symptoms sound familiar and you've been told you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it may actually be Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). Learn more about our SIBO treatment services in Toronto.
What Is IBS? Understanding the Symptoms
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common digestive disorder, affecting up to 20% of adults in North America. It's defined as a gastrointestinal condition with no identifiable structural cause, diagnosed based on recurring abdominal pain and changes in stool frequency or form. While stress is often blamed, research shows that post-infectious episodes, such as traveler’s diarrhea, may be more closely linked to its development.
SIBO: A Root Cause of IBS Symptoms
Emerging research shows that up to 84% of people diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO—an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. SIBO leads to gas production, bloating, discomfort, and changes in bowel habits. Some may also experience fatigue, skin conditions (like rosacea or eczema), joint pain, or brain fog. The higher the bacterial load, the more severe the symptoms. Discover how our Toronto naturopathic clinic addresses SIBO to alleviate IBS symptoms.
Conditions Linked to SIBO
SIBO is associated with several chronic conditions, including:
- Iron and B12 deficiency anemia
- Leaky gut (intestinal permeability)
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
- Interstitial cystitis
- Hypothyroidism
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Histamine intolerance
How is SIBO Diagnosed?
The gold standard for SIBO testing is the lactulose breath test, which measures hydrogen and methane gas levels. Elevated gas levels suggest bacterial overgrowth. The test is non-invasive and completed at home under guidance from a naturopathic doctor. It’s not available through OHIP but may be covered by extended health benefits. Find out more about our SIBO diagnostic procedures and how they can help identify the root cause of your digestive issues.
Natural SIBO Treatment at NDcare
SIBO treatment depends on your test results and the types of gas present. Naturopathic treatment often begins with 2–4 weeks of herbal antimicrobials and biofilm disruptors. In stubborn cases, pharmaceutical antibiotics or the elemental diet may be considered. Once the bacteria are reduced, gut healing becomes the focus to prevent relapse.
A Four-Phase Approach to Treating SIBO
1. Inhibit biofilm: Bacteria form biofilms to evade treatment. Specialized herbs and supplements can break these down.
2. Support detoxification: Enhancing liver pathways can reduce treatment side effects, especially in those with liver stress.
3. Eradicate bacteria: Use targeted herbal antimicrobials such as berberine, allicin, emulsified oregano, or silver hydrosol.
4. Heal and maintain gut function: Support acid, bile, and motility with prokinetics, enzymes, and gut-repairing nutrients.
Book a Consultation with a Toronto Naturopath
If you're experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, fatigue, or skin flare-ups and suspect IBS or SIBO, NDcare offers advanced testing and personalized treatment options. Explore our comprehensive SIBO treatment approach to start your journey towards better digestive health.
Book your free 15-minute consultation
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