What Is SIBO?

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth occurs when bacteria that normally live in the large intestine grow excessively in the small intestine. This imbalance interferes with digestion and nutrient absorption, often leading to chronic discomfort and other health issues.

Common Symptoms of SIBO

SIBO symptoms often overlap with other gut conditions, making it easy to overlook or misdiagnose. Patients commonly experience:

• Bloating or abdominal swelling
• Gas and belching
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Diarrhea, constipation, or both
• Food intolerances
• Unexplained fatigue
• Nutrient deficiencies (such as B12 or iron)

Root Causes and Contributing Factors

SIBO rarely develops on its own—it usually signals a deeper imbalance.

Potential root causes include:

• Slow intestinal motility (food moving too slowly through the gut)
• Low stomach acid or enzyme insufficiency
• Prior gastrointestinal infections
• Long-term use of certain medications (antibiotics, PPIs)
• Structural issues such as adhesions or diverticulosis
• Hormonal imbalances affecting gut motility, like low thyroid function (Hypothyroidism)
• Chronic stress affecting digestion and immune balance

Functional medicine care helps uncover these connections, including the role of hormone health in regulating metabolism and gut function.

How SIBO Is Diagnosed

Because SIBO mimics other digestive disorders, proper testing is key. At Aligned Modern Health, we use:

• Breath testing to detect abnormal fermentation patterns from bacteria
• Comprehensive stool or urine testing to evaluate gut health, inflammation, and nutrient absorption
• Hormone and thyroid testing when symptoms suggest metabolic or endocrine involvement

This root-cause lens ensures we’re not just treating symptoms, but addressing why bacterial overgrowth developed in the first place.

Our Treatment Approach

We believe in restoring balance, not masking symptoms. Your care plan may include:

• Functional Medicine: Personalized protocols targeting bacterial overgrowth, gut healing, and long-term balance.
• Nutrition & Lifestyle: Tailored dietary guidance to reduce symptoms and rebuild digestive resilience.
• Hormone Health: Identifying thyroid or adrenal issues that slow motility or weaken gut defenses.
• Acupuncture: To support nervous system regulation, improve digestion, and ease discomfort.

Conditions Commonly Linked to SIBO

SIBO often overlaps with or is mistaken for:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Hypothyroidism
• Dysbiosis
• Candida Overgrowth

What to Expect From Care

1. Initial Visit: Review of digestive symptoms, history, and lifestyle patterns.
2. Testing: Breath, stool, and hormone testing to uncover underlying drivers.
3. Personalized Plan: Targeted nutrition, supplements, and hormone or motility support.
4. Ongoing Care: Regular follow-ups to track healing and prevent recurrence.

We accept major insurance plans, and care is available in-person or virtually.

Is SIBO Affecting You?

If you struggle with ongoing bloating, discomfort, or digestive distress, SIBO may be the cause. At Aligned Modern Health, we’ll uncover the root drivers and create a plan designed to restore gut health and overall well-being.