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Candida Overgrowth & SIBO Explained: Symptoms, Root Causes, and Healing ROAdMAP

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If you've ever felt like your gut is running the show, and not in a good way, you're not alone.

Perhaps you wake up with a flat stomach, but by dinnertime, you look five months pregnant. Or maybe you feel exhausted no matter how much you sleep, wrestle with relentless sugar cravings, or experience mood swings that make you feel like you're on a hormonal rollercoaster. You've tried eating "clean," taking probiotics and cutting out gluten, yet the bloating, fatigue, and brain fog just won't budge.

Many people are unknowingly dealing with a tangled web of gut dysfunction. And at the center of that web? Often, it's a hidden combination of Candida overgrowth & SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) that quietly wreaks havoc behind the scenes.

These conditions aren't just buzzwords tossed around in wellness circles. They're very real, very disruptive, and can become chronic and life-altering.

But here's the good news: understanding the connection between them is the first step toward untangling your symptoms and healing your gut from the inside out.

What is SIBO?

SIBO, or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, occurs when bacteria that normally reside in the large intestine begin to colonize the small intestine. In this space, they don't belong in large numbers. It can also mean an imbalance in the type of bacteria that reside in the small intestine, since it is not a sterile environment. These bacteria produce hydrogen or hydrogen sulfide gas.

Besides bacteria, another organism could also cause trouble, namely, methanogens that produce methane gas. In this case, we talk about Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (or shortly IMO).

This overgrowth disrupts digestion and nutrient absorption, triggers inflammation, and ferments food before your body can properly break it down, leading to a cascade of frustrating symptoms. (1)

Common symptoms of SIBO

Although the presentation varies, the hallmark signs of SIBO include:

  • Bloating (especially post-meal)
  • Excess gas (flatulence or belching)
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or an alternating pattern
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Unintended weight loss or gain
  • Fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E) and mineral deficiencies (esp. iron)
  • Brain fog and fatigue
  • Skin issues (eczema, acne, rosacea)
  • Histamine intolerance and other food sensitivities

One study found that up to 80% of people diagnosed with IBS actually test positive for SIBO through breath testing, suggesting a huge portion of "IBS" cases could actually be SIBO in disguise. (2)

How is SIBO diagnosed?

Diagnosing SIBO isn't always straightforward, but the gold standard is the lactulose or glucose breath test. This test measures the levels of hydrogen and methane gas (or, in some cases, hydrogen sulfide gas) produced by bacterial (or other organisms) fermentation in the small intestine after consuming a sugar solution. (3)

What causes SIBO?

SIBO doesn't appear out of nowhere. It's typically the result of an underlying condition that disrupts normal gut motility, digestive juice levels, or immune defense.

Here are some of the most common root causes (4)(5):

  • Low stomach acid (Hypochlorhydria): Often caused by aging, chronic stress, Helicobacter pylori infection, or the use of stomach acid-suppressing medications (such as proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor antagonists, or antacids), this condition allows bacteria to survive and enter the small intestine.
  • Poor gut motility: Conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, and post-infectious IBS can slow the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC), which is the cleansing wave that clears bacteria and remaining food particles from the small intestine toward the colon.
  • Scar tissue or adhesions: These can result from surgeries, C-sections, or endometriosis and physically impair intestinal movement.
  • Food poisoning can trigger autoimmune damage to nerves that regulate intestinal motility, a condition known as post-infectious IBS.
  • Regular antibiotic use: Wipes out beneficial bacteria, allowing opportunistic microbes to dominate.
  • Ileocecal valve dysfunction: This "gate" between the small and large intestine can malfunction, allowing bacterial backflow.

Identifying the root causes is crucial. Otherwise, SIBO is likely to return even after treatment.

What is Candida?

Candida is a type of yeast—a fungus, to be precise—that naturally lives in small amounts throughout your digestive tract, mouth, skin, and vaginal area.

In healthy individuals, this yeast is kept in check by the immune system and beneficial gut bacteria. However, when the balance is disrupted, Candida can grow out of control, leading to a condition known as Candida overgrowth.

This isn't just about an annoying yeast infection. When Candida takes over the system, especially in the gut, it can contribute to a range of symptoms, including bloating, sugar cravings, brain fog, fatigue, and recurring infections.

What I often find is that Candida overgrowth & SIBO exist in tandem, "feeding off" the same triggers, such as antibiotic use, sugar-heavy diets, stress, and gut dysbiosis, creating a feedback loop that's incredibly difficult to break without a holistic strategy. (6)

Common signs of Candida Overgrowth

Symptoms of Candida overgrowth

Candida is a shapeshifter, literally. It can switch between a benign yeast form and a more aggressive fungal form (hyphal), allowing it to burrow into tissue and produce biofilms that protect it from your immune system and medications. This ability is what makes systemic Candida so problematic.

Common signs of Candida overgrowth (7) include:

  • Bloating, gas, and indigestion
  • Strong sugar and carb cravings
  • Fatigue and brain fog
  • White coating on the tongue (oral thrush)
  • Recurrent vaginal or urinary tract infections
  • Skin and nail fungal infections (athlete's foot, toenail fungus)
  • Mood swings, anxiety, and irritability
  • Joint pain and muscle aches
  • Chronic sinus problems

According to a study published in Frontiers in Microbiology, Candida can modulate host immunity, contribute to inflammation, and have been linked to both gastrointestinal and systemic conditions, especially when present in excessive amounts. (8)

Notably, not everyone will experience all these symptoms. Often, just a few persistent signs, especially when traditional treatments are unsuccessful, can indicate underlying yeast overgrowth.

Why does Candida overgrow?

The gut is an ecosystem. When something disrupts the balance, such as the use of antibiotics or a high-sugar diet, Candida can seize the opportunity to flourish. (9)

Here are some of the most common culprits:

  • Frequent or prolonged antibiotic use: These drugs kill off beneficial bacteria that normally keep Candida in check.
  • Oral contraceptives: Hormonal birth control has been shown to alter gut flora and encourage yeast growth.
  • Corticosteroids: These suppress immune function and can promote fungal infections.
  • High-sugar and high-carb diet: Candida feeds on sugar, and a carb-heavy diet fuels its overgrowth.
  • Chronic stress: Stress impacts cortisol levels and immune surveillance, allowing opportunistic microbes like Candida to thrive.
  • Heavy metal toxicity and mold exposure: These environmental toxins can impair immunity and gut resilience.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Estrogen dominance has been associated with higher rates of yeast infections and intestinal overgrowth.

Research also suggests that individuals with weakened immunity, whether due to chronic illness, autoimmunity, or untreated SIBO, are more susceptible to Candida infections. (10)

Normally, Candida lives harmlessly as part of your gut flora, but your gut immune system plays a big role in keeping it under control. Over 70% of your immune cells are found in the gut lining, where they help distinguish between friendly microbes and troublemakers like Candida in its aggressive fungal form. When the immune system is compromised, Candida can switch from a harmless yeast to an invasive fungus, penetrating tissues, releasing toxins, and hijacking the metabolism and mood. (11)

How is Candida diagnosed?

Candida overgrowth is notoriously difficult to diagnose using conventional methods. (12)

Functional testing offers more accurate clues:

  • Urine Organic Acids Test (OAT): This test can detect byproducts of Candida metabolism, like arabinose and tartaric acid. It's one of the most sensitive tools available, although it still cannot identify the location of the overgrowth.

OAT test showing elevated fungi levels
OAT test showing elevated arabinose and tartaric acid levels, indicating fungal overgrowth

 

  • Comprehensive Stool Analysis: This test can reveal fungal overgrowth in the colon, though it may miss overgrowth localized in the small intestine or systemically.

GI MAP stool test showing elevated Candida spp
The GI MAP stool test shows elevated Candida spp. levels

 

  • Blood Antibody Tests (IgG, IgA, IgM): These can suggest current or past Candida infections, but results must be interpreted cautiously.
  • Swab cultures: In case of oral or vaginal infections, swabs could be taken from the affected area and cultured or analyzed.
  • Clinical history and symptom tracking: In practice, this is often the most reliable indicator, especially when lab tests are inconclusive.

SIBO vs. Candida overgrowth

At this stage, it's essential to pause and connect the dots. Many of the symptoms of Candida overlap with those of SIBO. So, how do we tell them apart? And why do they so often show up together?

When it comes to gut dysfunction, Candida overgrowth & SIBO share a frustrating number of overlapping symptoms.

But beneath the surface, these are two very different microbes—bacterial and fungal—and each requires a distinct treatment approach. Misidentifying one for the other (or worse, missing one entirely) is a common reason why so many people stay stuck in the cycle of temporary relief and recurring flare-ups.

If you've treated SIBO and your bloating still hasn't budged, or you've done "Candida cleanses" with no lasting relief, it's time to consider the possibility of both conditions lurking beneath the surface.

Overlapping symptoms

Here's a snapshot of the common symptoms shared by Candida overgrowth & SIBO:

  • Bloating and distension (especially after meals)
  • Food intolerances (gluten, dairy, histamines, fermented foods)
  • Fatigue, brain fog, irritability
  • Constipation, diarrhea, or alternating bowel movements
  • Sugar cravings and mood swings
  • Skin issues (eczema, rashes, acne)
  • Difficulty losing weight
  • Bad breath, coated tongue

These symptoms are so nonspecific that many people are misdiagnosed with IBS, anxiety, or even hypochondria before a proper workup is done.

But here's what sets them apart underneath the hood:

SIBO

Cause: Overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. (but this is also happening due to hidden underlying causes).

Gases produced: Hydrogen, methane, or hydrogen sulfide. Each is linked to distinct symptom patterns (e.g., methane is commonly associated with constipation).

Main trigger foods: High-FODMAP carbohydrates like onions, garlic, apples, lentils, and wheat.

Test of choice: Lactulose or glucose breath test.

SIBO often causes rapid bloating, which can occur within 30–60 minutes of eating. It also creates a lot of gas, either via burping, flatulence, or both, due to fermenting carbohydrates before they're properly digested.

Candida overgrowth

Cause: Overgrowth of Candida albicans (a fungus, but it could be other species) often happens after taking antibiotics or other medications, going through a stressful period, or consuming a high amount of sugar or processed foods.

Byproducts: Acetaldehyde, ammonia, ethanol, chemicals that can damage tissues and trigger systemic symptoms.

Main trigger foods: Sugar, alcohol, refined carbs, yeast-containing foods.

Test of choice: Organic Acids Test, stool analysis, or antibody blood work.

Candida is sneaky. It may not cause much gas but instead shows up with sugar cravings, recurring yeast infections, oral thrush, skin rashes, and even mood symptoms like anxiety and depression. Its byproducts—especially acetaldehyde—have been shown to interfere with neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, linking Candida to mood disorders. (13)

How SIBO and Candida feed each other

Here's the kicker: it's incredibly common for people to have both Candida overgrowth & SIBO at the same time.

Here's why:

  • Candida weakens the gut barrier, creating microscopic leaks in your intestinal lining (a.k.a. "leaky gut"), which makes it easier for bacteria to migrate from the large intestine to the small intestine, setting the stage for SIBO. (14)
  • On the flip side, SIBO disrupts immune surveillance and digestive function, reducing the gut's ability to keep Candida in check. (15)
  • Both can result from chronic antibiotic use, poor gut motility, low stomach acid, and dysbiosis. So it's not just that they coexist; it's that they amplify each other.

What happens when you treat one but not the other?

Many practitioners (myself included) have seen clients who've been treated for SIBO multiple times or treated for H. Pylori infection with antibiotics, only to end up feeling worse. Why? Because those same antibiotics wiped out bacterial overgrowth but allowed Candida to surge in its place.

This is a classic case of what we call "microbial whack-a-mole." Knock down one overgrowth without restoring balance, and another opportunist takes its place.

That's why a personalized, whole-systems approach is essential. When you understand how Candida overgrowth & SIBO interact, you can stop the guessing game and start a true healing journey.

Candida overgrowth & SIBO difference

SIFO vs. Candida overgrowth and their link to SIBO

Just when you thought you'd mapped out all the key players in your gut health story, there's one more under-the-radar disruptor that often flies beneath the diagnostic radar: SIFO, or Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth.

What is SIFO?

SIFO, or Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth, is a condition where fungi (most often Candida) overgrow, specifically in the small intestine. The same space where SIBO occurs, but this time, it's a fungal, not bacterial, issue.

Unlike colon-based Candida overgrowth, SIFO is localized, affecting digestion at its most vulnerable point. While it's often overlooked, SIFO can mimic—or even coexist with—SIBO, leading to misdiagnosis and incomplete treatment.

What makes SIFO particularly tricky is that its symptoms often mimic SIBO, such as bloating, pain after meals, and food sensitivities, but it doesn't always show up on traditional tests.

In one study published in 2014, researchers found that over 25% of patients with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms actually had SIFO, many of whom tested negative for SIBO. That's a lot of people flying under the radar. (16)

What's the difference between SIFO vs. Candida overgrowth?

Difference between SIFO vs Candida overgrowth

Candida overgrowth often affects the entire body (skin, mouth, genitals, sinuses), while SIFO's effects are mostly digestive.

But here's where it gets tricky: many people with SIFO don't show external yeast symptoms, so unless a practitioner is trained to look deeper, it's often missed.

How SIFO and SIBO work together (or against you)

The small intestine isn't sterile, but it is meant to maintain a delicate balance of microbes, with far fewer and different types than those found in the large intestine. It's designed for nutrient absorption, not fermentation. (18)

But in cases of chronic gut dysfunction, whether through slowed gut motility, low stomach acid, or microbial migration, Candida overgrowth & SIBO can coexist, creating a storm of inflammation, immune reactivity, and digestive misery.

Let's break down how they feed each other:

  • Reduced gut motility (think slow intestinal transit): Allows both bacteria and fungi to stagnate and multiply. (15)
  • Antibiotics wipe out bacteria, but not yeast: Treating SIBO without antifungals can lead to SIFO, especially in women who are more likely to be yeast-prone. (15)
  • Candida damages the gut lining: This makes it easier for SIBO to recur because your gut's protective barriers are compromised. (14)
  • Compromised immunity: Chronic inflammation, stress, mold exposure, and poor sleep all impair your immune response, making it harder to fight both bacterial and fungal invaders. (15)

One clinical paper in FEMS Microbiology Reviews explains how Candida albicans form protective biofilms that make them resistant to antifungals and how they interact with bacteria in mixed-species communities to shield each other from treatment. (19) This may explain why many people feel better for a while…until symptoms return with a vengeance.

Are you dealing with SIBO, SIFO, or both?

Here are a few clues that SIFO may be in the mix, especially after treating SIBO:

  • You experience increased bloating, fatigue, and sugar cravings after antibiotics.
  • You've had recurrent vaginal yeast infections or thrush.
  • You feel "drunk" or foggy-headed after eating sugar or carbs.
  • Your breath test was negative, but your gut symptoms persist.
  • You've taken PPIs, steroids, or the birth control pill long-term.

If any of these resonate, it's time to expand the scope of treatment. Ignoring fungal overgrowth while focusing only on bacteria is like trying to fix one leak in a sinking boat while ignoring the hole in the floor.

Natural healing options for Candida overgrowth & SIBO

When dealing with Candida overgrowth & SIBO, the path to healing can feel overwhelming, like navigating a maze blindfolded. But with the right roadmap, testing, and support, you can break the cycle of bloat, brain fog, and burnout.

Let's explore what holistic and functional strategies actually work for SIBO and Candida and when they coexist.

A. Diet: the foundation of gut healing

Food can be your best medicine or your biggest trigger. Tailoring your diet is the first step in calming inflammation and reducing overgrowth.

For SIBO:

  • Low-FODMAP diet: Temporarily limits fermentable carbs like garlic, onions, apples, legumes, and wheat. These ferment in the small intestine and can feed bacteria. Studies showed a significant reduction in IBS symptoms using a low-FODMAP diet in the short term. (20) Despite limited direct research on the effectiveness of the low-FODMAP diet specifically for SIBO, it is commonly recommended due to the overlapping symptoms with IBS to control the symptoms and to reduce fermentation in the small intestine. The diet is aimed at reducing symptoms, but it will not resolve SIBO on its own.
  • SIBO Bi-Phasic Diet (created by Dr. Nirala Jacobi): Introduces foods in phases, starting with low fermentation options and then reintroducing slowly.
  • Avoid alcohol, gluten, and sugar, which may impair gut motility and feed "bad" bacteria.

For more information on which foods to avoid and how to find suitable alternatives, check out my previous blog post. 

For Candida:

  • Low-sugar, gluten-free, anti-yeast diet: Cut added sugars, fruit juices, alcohol, and refined grains (esp. wheat). (21)
  • Focus on: Non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats (avocado, coconut, olive oil), and low-sugar fruits like berries and green apples.
  • Include antifungal foods: Garlic, ginger, lemongrass,  olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, coconut oil (contains caprylic acid), thyme, and oregano. (22)

For both:

  • Gluten-free, low-starch, nutrient-dense: Base your meals on leafy greens, cruciferous veggies (as much as tolerated), pasture-raised proteins, and healthy fats.
  • Bone broth and collagen for gut lining support.
  • Stay hydrated with electrolytes (especially during detox phases).

 

Tip: Don't starve yourself to kill bugs; support your body with nourishing, whole foods that promote healing, not just restriction.

B. Supplements: antimicrobials, antifungals, and biofilm busters

Choosing the right supplements can speed healing and reduce symptoms, but they must be used strategically.

For SIBO:

Herbal antimicrobials:

    • Allicin (garlic extract) – Effective for methanogen overgrowth (for IMO – Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth) (23) and has antimicrobial effects against Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus (24), and pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli (25).
    • Berberine (26), Neem (27), Oregano Oil (28), and Thyme (29) – Broad-spectrum antimicrobials that rival antibiotics in some studies.

Biofilm disruptors: are agents designed to break down the protective matrix of microbial biofilms, making bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics and immune responses. NAC, Interfase Plus, or enzymes like serrapeptase can break the protective layers that microbes form. (30)

Prokinetics (to support gut motility): Ginger root, Iberogast®, or low-dose erythromycin to stimulate the Migrating Motor Complex.

For Candida:

Antifungal agents:

    • Caprylic acid - A medium-chain fatty acid from coconut oil, proven to disrupt Candida cell membranes and inhibit biofilm formation. (31)
    • Oregano oil – High in antifungal compounds like carvacrol and thymol. (32)
    • Garlic extract (allicin) – is also effective against Candida albicans. (33)
    • Curcumin, Cinnamaldehyde, Eugenol, and Thymol compounds not only inhibit Candida growth but also disrupt biofilm formation, enhancing their antifungal efficacy. (34)
    • Saccharomyces boulardii – A beneficial yeast that inhibits the translocation of C. albicans from the gut to other organs, lowers intestinal colonization and reduces inflammation. (35)

Binders: are substances that can adsorb and help eliminate toxins. Activated charcoal or bentonite clay (under practitioner guidance) can absorb fungal die-off toxins like acetaldehyde. These are typically taken at least 2 hours away from other medications, supplements, and foods to avoid interfering with absorption.

For both:

  • Choose a few herbs that may be efficient for both. A comprehensive stool test can also help reveal the overgrowth of certain bacterial and fungal species in the intestines, which may help tailor the right treatment approach.
  • Liver support: Milk thistle, dandelion root, and B-complex to support detox pathways during microbial die-off.
  • GI support: L-glutamine, aloe vera, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), and marshmallow root to soothe and rebuild the gut lining. (Be careful if you have an active SIBO, as some of these may worsen the symptoms.)

Don't overlook your immune system. Healing from Candida overgrowth & SIBO isn't just about killing off overgrowths. It's about restoring immune tolerance and regulation. The gut and immune system are in constant dialogue. If that communication breaks down, Candida can keep coming back.

You can support gut immunity with:

  • Nutrients like vitamin D, zinc, and glutathione
  • Anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, omega-3s (fatty fish), and polyphenols (berries, green tea)
  • Gentle immune modulators like reishi mushroom or beta-glucans.

C. Medications: when natural isn't enough

In stubborn or severe cases, pharmaceuticals may be needed in tandem with lifestyle changes.

For SIBO:

  • Rifaximin (Xifaxan®) – Non-absorbable antibiotic targeting hydrogen-dominant SIBO.
  • Rifaximin + Neomycin – For methanogen overgrowth (IMO) (constipation-type). (36)

For Candida:

  • Nystatin – Stays in the gut; often used for intestinal yeast.
  • Fluconazole (Diflucan®) – Systemic antifungal; can be effective for deep infections.

Prescription is usually short-term and paired with antifungal herbs, binders, and liver support. (37)

Important: Pharmaceuticals kill microbes but don't rebuild the terrain. They must be followed with healing-focused nutrition and supplementation.

D. Lifestyle & functional strategies

Your nervous system, sleep, and stress response all influence gut health. Healing is more than protocols. It's about creating a body environment where microbes can't thrive.

  • Vagus nerve stimulation: Humming, gargling, cold exposure, and meditation improve gut motility and immune signaling.
  • Gentle detox practices: Sweat through the sauna or gentle movement, dry brushing, castor oil packs, and an Epsom salt bath to release toxins.
  • Meal hygiene: Chew food thoroughly, eat in a parasympathetic (restful) state, and space meals by 3–4 hours to activate MMC (your gut motility).
  • Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours; poor sleep impairs microbial balance and immune resilience.

E. Probiotics and prebiotics

Introducing probiotics and prebiotics at the wrong time can worsen symptoms, especially with active SIBO or SIFO.

For Candida:

Saccharomyces boulardii – Antifungal yeast that boosts immune defense. (35)

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) and Lactobacillus acidophilus have been shown to help restore balance. LGG can significantly reduce biofilm formation by Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. (38)(39) L. acidophilus also shows antifungal effects against various Candida species, especially at higher concentrations, by inhibiting the growth and biofilm formation of most Candida spp. (40)

Several other probiotic strains have demonstrated effectiveness against Candida overgrowth. One study found that giving a multispecies probiotic (containing lyophilized Lactobacillus rhamnosus HS111, Lactobacillus acidophilus HS101, and Bifidobacterium bifidum) was effective in reducing the colonization of the oral cavity with Candida. (41)

For SIBO:

Saccharomyces boulardii - Supports SIBO antibiotic therapy. A clinical trial showed that adding S. boulardii to antibiotic treatment, like metronidazole, improved SIBO eradication rates compared to antibiotics alone. (42)

In another study, in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, a 3-month course of S. boulardii eliminated SIBO in 80% of cases, compared to 23.1% in a placebo group. (43)

Spore-based probiotics (e.g., Bacillus coagulans) – A well-studied soil-based probiotic that can survive stomach acid and doesn't ferment in the small intestine.

In a clinical trial involving 30 individuals with chronic abdominal pain or diarrhea and a positive hydrogen breath test (HBT) for SIBO, B. coagulans Unique IS-2 was found to be effective. After three weeks of antibiotic therapy, participants were given either B. coagulans Unique IS-2 or a placebo for 15 days alongside maintenance antibiotics. After six months, the probiotic group showed significant improvements:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms like belching, flatulence, and diarrhea significantly improved.
  • Abdominal pain disappeared completely.
  • 93% of individuals in the probiotic group had negative HBTs, compared to 67% in the placebo group. (44)

Are you interested in which probiotics could work for SIBO? Read more in my other blog post.

Final thoughts on healing from Candida overgrowth & SIBO

Healing from Candida overgrowth & SIBO isn't a one-size-fits-all journey. It's a layered, strategic process that involves:

  • Reducing microbial load (without destroying your gut ecosystem)
  • Rebuilding the gut lining and supporting immune strength
  • Rebalancing the gut microbiome and lifestyle to support long-term health

And most importantly? Listening to your body and pacing yourself.

If you've made it this far, you already know that Candida overgrowth & SIBO aren't just isolated conditions; they're interwoven, complex, and deeply connected to how you feel every single day.

That stubborn bloating that won't go away, the brain fog that clouds your thoughts, the relentless cravings, the recurring yeast infections, the fatigue you can't shake, it's not "just stress," and it's not all in your head. It's your gut speaking up. Loudly.

And now, you have the clarity to start answering back.

Let's recap what you've learned:

  • SIBO is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, often caused by gut motility issues, low digestive juices, toxins, and structural issues.
  • Candida overgrowth is a fungal imbalance driven by a high-sugar diet, antibiotics, stress, and weakened immunity.
  • The two conditions often occur together, forming a destructive feedback loop that keeps you feeling unwell.
  • SIFO is a hidden condition that mimics SIBO but is fungal in nature, often undiagnosed and undertreated.
  • Healing requires a layered strategy: antimicrobials and antifungals, but also rebuilding, restoring, and rebalancing the entire gut ecosystem.

And most importantly, healing is possible.

Your body isn't broken. It's simply out of balance, and now that you know the "why," you can begin addressing the "how" with precision and compassion.

Ready to end the guesswork?

If you've tried treating SIBO or Candida but still don't feel well, it's not your fault. What you need is a plan that:

  • Looks at the whole picture, not just the symptoms
  • Uses functional testing to identify the imbalances
  • Applies targeted nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes
  • Offers support and accountability from someone who gets it

Book a free SIBO & Gut Assessment Call today and get a customized roadmap based on your unique symptoms, history, and goals.

Because you deserve to feel like yourself again, not just symptom-free, but fully alive.

 

Disclaimer: 

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only, is not intended as medical advice, and does not claim to diagnose, heal, treat, or cure any conditions Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any dietary regimen, supplement, or lifestyle changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication. 

 

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Gut-Brain Axis: How Nervous System Dysregulation Fuels SIBO Symptoms

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Ever feel like your gut just didn't get the memo?

You're eating clean, avoiding gluten and dairy like the plague, and popping the "right" supplements… you even went through an elimination protocol, but you're still bloated, gassy, or running to the bathroom (or worse—not going at all).

Maybe you've been diagnosed with SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) or IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Maybe your food sensitivities are multiplying faster than you can say "elimination diet."

Here's the truth no one talks about enough:

It's not just about what you eat. It's about how your body and your nervous system feel when you eat.

That's right. The state of your nervous system could be the reason your gut hasn't fully healed, no matter how many gut protocols, probiotics, or low-FODMAP recipes you've tried.

In this blog post, I'm going to dive deep into the gut-brain connection, how nervous system dysregulation fuels gut dysfunction, and the often-overlooked role of the vagus nerve in digestive health. Most importantly, you'll learn what you can do about it—starting today.

Affiliate Disclaimer:

This blog post contains affiliate links to products and services, such as the Primal Trust Academy. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. I only recommend products and services that I believe will be helpful to my readers.

gut-brain axis - nervous system support for SIBO

The gut-brain axis

Imagine your gut and brain as two best friends texting each other all day long. That constant stream of messages—about hunger, stress, emotions, and immune responses—is called the gut-brain axis. And the phone line they use? That would be your vagus nerve.

The vagus nerve is like your body's internal Wi-Fi network—an information superhighway that connects your brainstem to your heart, lungs, and digestive tract. It tells your stomach to release acid, your intestines to move food along, and your immune system to stay calm.

Here's the kicker: This communication is bi-directional. That means…

  • A stressed-out brain can send danger signals to the gut, slowing digestion and triggering inflammation.
  • And a troubled gut—say, with dysbiosis (imbalance between the beneficial and pathogenic gut flora), SIBO, or leaky gut—can send distress signals back to the brain, contributing to anxiety, brain fog, and mood swings.

This is why you can't "out-supplement" or "out-diet" chronic gut issues if your nervous system is stuck in fight-or-flight mode. Healing your gut starts with helping your body feel safe.

What really happens when you're stuck in survival mode

Let's take a moment to talk about stress, not just the obvious kind like deadlines or family drama, but the sneaky, chronic type your body may have normalized over the years.

  • Emotional stress (e.g., work pressure, grief)
  • Past trauma (e.g., violence, accidents)
  • Chronic illness (e.g., autoimmune diseases, infections)
  • Physiological stress (e.g., nutrient deficiencies, over-exercising, undereating, physical injury)
  • Environmental stress (e.g., noise, pollution, mold exposure)

They all keep your body in a sympathetic state, or "fight or flight." When you're in that mode, digestion is the last thing your body wants to deal with.

Think about it: if a lion is chasing you, your body doesn't care about digesting your kale salad—it wants to run.

Here's what stress does to your digestion

Slows gut motility:

When you're calm and relaxed, your digestive system creates rhythmic contractions called the migrating motor complex (MMC) that get activated between meals in a fasted state. Think of it like a gentle wave that sweeps through your intestines, keeping things moving and clean.

But under chronic stress, these contractions slow down—or stop altogether. Food lingers too long in the small intestine, giving bacteria time to ferment it and multiply where they shouldn't be. That's how Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) starts.

Lowers stomach acid & digestive enzyme output:

Stress diverts your body's energy to muscles (for fighting or fleeing), not digestion. One of the first casualties? Stomach acid and digestive enzymes.

Without enough stomach acid:

  • Food doesn't break down properly.
  • Proteins ferment instead of digesting—leading to bloating, gas, and discomfort.
  • You can't absorb essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
  • And you lose your body's natural first line of defense against harmful microbes.

Low enzymes = poor breakdown of carbs, fats, and proteins → indigestion and malabsorption. And guess who loves leftover, undigested food? Yep, bad gut bugs.

Weakens the gut lining:

Your gut lining is like a finely tuned security system, only allowing in nutrients and keeping out unwanted intruders. But when you're in a constant state of stress, the tight junctions in your gut wall loosen. This condition is known as intestinal permeability or leaky gut.

What slips through? Undigested food particles, toxins, and pathogens. Your immune system sees these as threats and mounts an inflammatory response, leading to:

This is the reason why people under stress suddenly "react" to foods they've eaten for years.

Disrupts the gut microbiome:

Your microbiome—the trillions of bacteria living in your gut—is incredibly sensitive to stress. Under normal conditions, beneficial bacteria help regulate digestion, mood, and immunity.

But stress is like a natural disaster in the gut:

  • It kills off beneficial strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria
  • It allows opportunistic pathogens (like Candida, H. pylori, or certain Clostridium species) to take over
  • It increases gut pH, which changes the environment and allows the "bad gut bugs" to thrive

The result? More bloating, poor nutrient absorption, and increased inflammation. Plus, an imbalanced microbiome means your gut can't support hormone detox or healthy neurotransmitter production.

Dysregulates neurotransmitters:

You've probably heard that your gut is your "second brain"—and it's true. Your gut bacteria help produce critical neurotransmitters, like:

  • Serotonin (mood stabilizer and feel-good hormone—90% is made in the gut!)
  • Dopamine (motivation and reward)
  • GABA (calm, anti-anxiety)

When your gut is inflamed or out of balance, the production of these chemical messengers drops. That's why so many people with digestive issues also struggle with:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Brain fog
  • Sleep issues
  • Emotional ups and downs

It's not "just in your head"—it's happening in your gut-brain axis.

The Vagus nerve: your digestive system's on/off switch

Think of your vagus nerve as the thermostat of your nervous system. It helps you shift from fight-or-flight (sympathetic) into rest-and-digest (parasympathetic). If your vagus nerve isn't working properly—what we call low vagal tone—you'll struggle to stay in that rest-and-digest state long enough for healing to happen.

Low vagal tone can lead to:

  • Bloating and gas
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Slow gastric emptying
  • SIBO relapses
  • GERD or acid reflux
  • Anxiety, brain fog, and insomnia
  • Histamine intolerance or MCAS symptoms
  • Poor heart rate variability (HRV)
  • Trouble swallowing or shallow breathing​​

If you've ever felt like your body is "stuck in high alert," or you can't relax no matter how tired you are, chances are your vagus nerve needs support.

Vagus nerve and SIBO

Nervous system dysregulation and SIBO

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) happens when bacteria that should stay in the large intestine start growing in the small intestine. Since the small intestine is designed for nutrient absorption—not fermentation—this overgrowth can cause major digestive issues.

Common SIBO symptoms:

  • Bloating (especially after eating)
  • Gas and distension
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or both
  • Nutrient deficiencies (B12, iron, fat-soluble vitamins)
  • Abdominal pain and discomfort
  • Brain fog and fatigue
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Skin issues (eczema, rosacea, acne)

SIBO isn't just about bacteria. It's about what allowed those bacteria to overgrow in the first place.

And one of the biggest root causes? Impaired gut motility, which is often driven by a dysregulated nervous system.

When you're stuck in sympathetic dominance:

  • Your migrating motor complex (MMC)—the "housekeeping wave" that cleans your small intestine—doesn't work properly.
  • Your body underproduces digestive juices, leading to poorly digested food that ferments and feeds the wrong bugs.
  • You lose natural antibacterial defenses like stomach acid and bile.

So, yes—herbs, antimicrobials, antibiotics, and diets can help temporarily. But if you want lasting SIBO relief? You have to support your nervous system and vagal tone.

How to heal the nervous system-gut axis naturally

The best part? You don't need a fancy device or endless supplements to start improving your nervous system health.

Here's what I recommend to my gut clients:

Vagus nerve activation techniques

These help shift your body into parasympathetic mode (rest-and-digest):

  • Deep belly breathing (especially 4-7-8 breathing before meals)
  • Gargling or humming—stimulates throat muscles linked to the vagus nerve
  • Cold exposure (like splashing your face with cold water)
  • Singing or chanting (yes, it works!)
  • Meditation and loving-kindness practices
  • Yoga and tai chi—especially poses like legs up the wall

Somatic & mind-body healing

You can't "think" your way out of chronic stress. You have to feel your way out. These help discharge stored stress from the body:

  • Somatic tracking and interoception (noticing internal sensations)
  • EFT tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques)
  • TRE (tension and trauma release exercises)
  • Grounding and time in nature
  • Co-regulation with others (safe connection is healing)

Brain retraining & nervous system programs

If your symptoms are deeply entrenched, consider working with structured programs like:

  • Nerva App – a gut-directed hypnotherapy program clinically proven for IBS/SIBO relief
  • The Gupta Program – rewires limbic and vagus nerve dysfunction
  • Primal Trust™ – blends somatics, trauma work, and nervous system education for deep healing​​

I am currently participating in the Primal Trust program, learning to regulate my nervous system better, process and release stored emotions, and ultimately cultivate a sense of peace and resilience in my life. This is also something I regularly recommend to my clients.

Primal Trust Academy offers a comprehensive approach to help individuals release stuck emotions and regulate their nervous systems. This can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with the long-term effects of trauma.

Here's how the academy can support you:

  • Somatic practices: Techniques that focus on body awareness and movement to release stored tension and emotions.
  • Mind-body integration: Programs that integrate mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises to calm the nervous system.
  • Emotional processing: Guided exercises to help recognize, process, and release trapped emotions.
  • Community support: Access to a supportive community where you can share experiences and gain insights from others on a similar journey.
Check out the Primal Trust Academy

Nervous system-supporting eating tips

  • Eat in a calm, seated environment. No phones, no rushing.
  • Take 3–5 deep breaths before each meal.
  • Chew your food thoroughly (20–30 times per bite!).
  • Don't eat in fight-or-flight—go for a quick walk or breathwork break if needed.
  • Don't under-eat—undereating = a major stressor for the nervous system.

You're not broken—your body's just trying to protect you

Let me remind you of something important:

If your body is stuck in stress mode, it's not because you've failed.

It's because your body is trying to protect you.

Maybe from trauma. Maybe from overexertion. Maybe from years of ignoring symptoms because life demanded it.

But guess what? You can teach it something new. You can help it feel safe. You can restore trust between your brain and your gut.

Healing your gut means healing all of you.

If you're tired of the food fears, bloating, and constant worry over what's going to trigger your next flare, know this:

Healing your gut isn't just about food. It's about feeling safe in your body.

Healing starts with the nervous system.

So next time you're tempted to add another supplement or cut another food, pause and ask yourself:

  • Am I actually feeling safe and calm when I eat?
  • Is my nervous system supported in this healing process?

Because once your body feels safe, everything else—digestion, hormones, energy, mood—starts to fall into place.

 

 

Disclaimer: 

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only, is not intended as medical advice, and does not claim to diagnose, heal, treat, or cure any conditions Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any dietary regimen, supplement, or lifestyle changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication. 

Gut-Brain Axis: How Nervous System Dysregulation Fuels SIBO Symptoms Read More »

Brain fog, inability to focus? Get a Comprehensive Look at What Causes Brain Fog and How to Overcome It

Brain fog is an all too common phenomenon that many of us suffer from. For many, the struggle to concentrate, remember things, and stay focused is real. Brain fog and fatigue are common symptoms of many chronic health conditions. (1) Fortunately, there are ways to help combat the effects of brain fog. In this article, we will be taking a comprehensive look at what causes brain fog and how to overcome it. We'll cover strategies for alleviating brain fog, from lifestyle changes to dietary supplements. With the right tools and tips, you can feel better quickly.

brain fog symptoms, causes, and natural remedies

What are the signs of having brain fog?

  • Difficulty concentrating, slow thinking
  • Poor short-term memory, in a way that you can't recall the details from your last conversation
  • Trouble finding the right words
  • Difficulty multitasking; completing complex tasks seems quite challenging
  • Feeling overwhelmed or confused
  • Disorganization and lack of focus, feeling easily distracted,
  • Exhaustion and fatigue
  • Poor decision making
  • Problems with planning or organization
  • Poor body coordination

Many people fear this may be part of a cognitive decline or a more serious neurological condition. But the actual reasons for brain fog could stem from somewhere else in the body.

Common Causes of Brain Fog

Brain fog is a common symptom that relates to many health conditions.

Inflammatory diet: Eating processed foods and refined carbohydrates can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes, which can cause brain fog.

Chronic stress: High-stress levels can impair memory and focus and tax your adrenal function, leading to brain fog. (2)

Lack of Sleep: Not getting enough sleep can affect your ability to concentrate and remember things.

Dehydration: Dehydration can impair your cognitive function, leading to brain fog.

Lack of physical exercise: Endorphins and brain glucose and oxygen rise with exercise. It also reduces cortisol and promotes brain cell growth. Exercise may be the best approach to enhancing brain health and function. (3)

Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal imbalances, such as those related to menopause or thyroid disorders, can cause brain fog. (4)(5)

Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, can lead to brain fog.

Nutrient Deficiencies: Vitamin B12 (6), iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acid (7) deficiencies can all lead to brain fog.

Gut imbalances: Dysbiosis (an imbalance between the "good and the bad gut bugs") (8), or other gut conditions like IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease like Crohn's disease (9)), SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) (10), Celiac disease (11), and even non-celiac gluten sensitivity (12), Candida overgrowth, a Leaky gut (13)- they can all cause inflammation.

 

 

Other health conditions that can cause brain fog:

  • Chronic viral infections, even 'Post-Covid syndrome' (14)
  • Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) (15)
  • Mast cell disorders & Histamine intolerance (16)
  • Environmental toxins (like mold toxicity and heavy metals)
  • Neurodegenerative disorders
  • Other autoimmune diseases (Multiple Sclerosis (17), Hashimoto, etc.)

It is essential to know that, most of the time, multiple factors contribute to brain fog.

But one common reason that can affect your cognitive function is inflammation, which happens with many health conditions. (18)

Can brain fog be diagnosed?

Brain fog is not a medical condition, so there is no specific medical test for it. It is a term used to describe various symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, fatigue, and difficulty focusing. However, cognitive assessments can be used to assess, evaluate, and diagnose brain fog. Other tests, such as the Brain Fog Symptoms Quiz or a physical and neurological exam, may also measure symptoms. (19)

brain fog strategies

How to Beat Brain Fog

Investigating and addressing underlying factors can be crucial to eliminate brain fog. Working with a practitioner to have some tests done can be needed to get closer to the solution.

But let's see a few strategies how you can do to support your brain health:

Diet

  • Eat a nutrient-dense diet: Focus on eating a variety of anti-inflammatory, nutrient-rich whole foods such as grass-fed protein sources, healthy fats (like avocado, extra virgin olive oil, ghee butter, etc.), complex carbohydrates, and plenty of fresh and colorful fruits and vegetables.

Including foods high in flavonoids and/or omega-3s (7):

      • Dark chocolate
      • Fatty fish, like salmon and trout
      • Shellfish, like shrimp, clams, and scallops
      • Chia seeds
      • Walnuts
      • Citrus fruits
      • Avocados
      • Berries, including cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries
      • Leafy greens, including spinach and broccoli
      • Avoid processed foods: Processed foods are often high in sugar, additives, and unhealthy fats, leading to brain fog and other adverse health effects. It is especially true for omega-6-containing vegetable oils like sunflower, safflower, or canola.

Avoid your personal triggering foods. Each person is different with various tolerance to foods. Sometimes, a short-term (6-8 weeks) elimination diet can help find the triggering foods. Getting stuck on any elimination diet may cause further complications like nutrient deficiencies, undereating, food fear, etc. Therefore, working with a practitioner and creating an exit strategy is crucial.

Find out how you tolerate caffeine: We tend to run on coffee, yet it may be the culprit of sleeplessness, stress, anxiety, and even panic attacks. Try to consume coffee before midday and possibly after a meal.

Ensure to stay hydrated throughout the day: Dehydration can lead to mental fatigue and worsen brain fog. You can mineralize your water if you add trace mineral drops or Himalayan or sea salt to drinking water or create infused waters by mixing it with fruits, vegetables, and herbs. If you use a water filter at home (which I highly recommend), add an alkalization stage in the reverse osmosis process to increase nutrient levels and hydrate your cells.

Master your lifestyle

Sticking to healthy habits can help you improve your brain and overall health.

Prioritizing sleep

No question about the importance of sleep. During sleep, your brain detoxifies debris, processes memories, and creates new brain cells.

A regular sleeping schedule can help regulate your internal clock (circadian rhythm). If you have many rushing thoughts at night, try journaling before sleep or taking a relaxing bath with Epsom salt and essential oils. Reducing coffee intake or limiting it to the morning can also help decrease insomnia.

Get regular exercise 

Exercise can increase oxygen flow and glucose metabolism and reduce the stress hormone cortisol. Exercise has also been shown to reduce inflammation and improve the gut microbiome. You don't need to do vigorous exercise to move your body. Gently forms of exercise like yoga, pilates, and stretching can all work. Daily walks can be one of the simplest exercise forms for some people. Even standing up frequently from sitting can help stimulate the brain.

Practice stress management techniques

Stress damages your brain cells, but not only has an effect on the brain, but it has severe consequences on the whole body. It shuts down digestion, immune response, reproductive organs, and all other body functions that are less important in a "survival situation" (flight-fright response). Therefore, you may need to find mind-body practices to help you deal with stress consciously. Anything that makes you feel calm can work to reduce your stress levels. Some people love meditation, but Diaphragmatic breathing, journaling, or gardening may be more therapeutic for others.

Reduce toxins in your home

Unfortunately, we live in a world surrounded by toxins, so supporting your detoxification pathways and reducing toxins in your home is crucial.

Switching to natural cleaning and beauty products can be a significant first step. Ditching artificial air fresheners and scented candles to essential oils, Using a HEPA air filter to reduce the toxin load.

Support your gut health

Eliminating triggering foods and infections and reducing inflammation can do wonders. According to studies, probiotics were found to help reduce brain fog. (20)(21)

Supplements

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and certain plant oils are critical for proper brain function. Studies have found that omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, improve cognitive function, and even prevent cognitive decline.(7)(22)

Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that helps to maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. It is also involved in the production of DNA and RNA, and it helps to regulate mood and energy levels. Low vitamin B12 can contribute to brain fog, so a supplement can help boost mental clarity. (6)

Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo biloba is an ancient herb used for centuries to treat various ailments. It has been shown to improve memory, concentration, and mental alertness, making it helpful for those experiencing brain fog. (23)(24)

Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries to treat fatigue and stress. Studies have found that it can help reduce fatigue, improve mental clarity, and enhance cognitive performance. (25)

Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to support brain health and improve mood and memory function. It can stimulate the brain hormone BDNF, which can boost and preserve neurons, combat oxidative stress, and possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help with symptoms of brain fog. (26)

Acetyl L-carnitine (ALCAR) has been shown to help in the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with memory and cognitive function. Studies have also found that ALCAR can slow brain-related aging and decline, as well as alter brain energy metabolism and increase noradrenaline and serotonin content in healthy mice. Additionally, ALCAR has been found to boost acetylcholine, shield the brain against oxidative stress, increase serotonin levels, and minimize the cellular waste produced during ATP processing. (27)

 The bottom line

Brain fog is a term used to describe a lack of mental clarity, difficulty concentrating, and generally feeling unwell. A variety of physical and mental health conditions, such as depression, stress, and chronic fatigue syndrome, can cause it. Treatment for brain fog often involves lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. But suppose you don't see improvement with these lifestyle changes. In that case, it may be time to get support in your healing journey to identify any underlying causes and get tailored treatment options to resolve brain fog for good.

 

 

Disclaimer:

This post is only for informational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. I recommend always consulting your healthcare practitioner before trying any treatment or dietary changes.

Brain fog, inability to focus? Get a Comprehensive Look at What Causes Brain Fog and How to Overcome It Read More »

SIBO and Thyroid dysfunctions

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Gut SIBO thyroid dysfunctions hypothyroidismAre you suffering from symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, dry skin, slow bowel movement, and even weight gain? These could also be a sign of thyroid dysfunction. (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Your thyroid is responsible for controlling your metabolic processes. If it is under-functioning (in the case of hypothyroidism), it pushes the brake pedal and slows down the body's metabolic processes. In the case of hyperthyroidism, it pushes the gas pedal and makes the process run faster.

Even though you may have thyroid dysfunction, your thyroid-like symptoms can actually stem from your gut. On the other hand, low functioning thyroid could also be a risk factor for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). It means that SIBO can lead to a hypothyroidism state, but hypothyroidism can also result in bacterial overgrowth.

The gut-thyroid connection

Some studies have found that thyroid symptoms improved after treating the gut. These gut issues can come from Helicobacter pylori (7,8), parasites (9), fungal infection (Candida) (10), SIBO (11), or food intolerances (12), etc.

Studies estimate that around 30% of people with hypothyroidism have low stomach acid (13). Stomach acid is essential to kill pathogens and prevent the overgrowth of bacteria. If this protective mechanism fails, then it can easily lead to SIBO. (14) This is why using stomach acid blockers (Proton-pump inhibitors) unnecessarily can be problematic and may also lead to SIBO. Here you can read more about the types of SIBO.

The other reason is that overgrowth of bad bacteria can lead to issues with the conversion of thyroid hormones, namely T4 (inactive form) to T3 (active form). (15) Much of the thyroid hormone is released by the thyroid gland in the inactive type known as T4 (thyroxine), but it must be converted to an active form known as T3 (triiodothyronine) for the cells to use it. (16) Around 20% of T4 can be converted to T3 in the gut by good gut bacteria.

But most of the conversion is done by the liver, which can also be sluggish for many reasons. A sluggish liver and gallbladder cannot remove hormones efficiently, such as estrogen. Elevated estrogen levels can also negatively influence the conversion rate of thyroid hormones. (17)

The other issue can be when T4 converts to reverse T3 (rT3), the inactive form. A higher level of reverse T3 can be produced if someone went through a major life event, a trauma (emotional or physical stress like a surgery), or having chronic stress (illness, inflammation). (18,19) In some cases, other factors such as diet, not just a diet high in sugars and processed foods, but also a ketogenic or very low carb diet, can cause elevated levels of rT3. (20, 21)

So making sure that you have a well-functioning gut and liver, the gallbladder is vital to ensure proper conversion of thyroid hormones.

The immune system-thyroid connection

There are 70% of the body's immune cells located in the gut. The immune response in this part of the body is called GALT, or gut-associated lymphoid tissue. The GALT contains several forms of immune cells, such as T and B cells, that detect and respond to antigens as potential threats that trigger immune system reactions.

Problems arise when any one of these intestinal barriers is weakened. When the small intestine's tight junctions loosen (in case of "leaky gut syndrome"), undigested food particles, microorganisms, toxins, or larger proteins enter the bloodstream. The immune system sees these particles as unwanted intruders and starts an inflammation process to rid of them. Leaky gut can be one of the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto-Thyroiditis, an autoimmune form of hypothyroidism. If you have a leaky gut, the immune system can keep attacking the thyroid and cause continued problems. (22, 23)

What might help to support your body?

Focusing on gut health is an essential part of any treatment process as it is also connected to your immune system and thyroid autoimmunity, and thyroid functions. But concentrating on the thyroid function is also crucial.

If you are experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction and SIBO, you can do the following steps:

  1. Do the necessary testing to find out what the issue is behind your symptoms: ask for a SIBO breath test and a full thyroid panel from your Practitioner
  2. Taking thyroid medication may help with motility and considering eliminating SIBO or other infections if present
  3. Choose a customized diet that eliminates inflammatory foods such as sugar, processed foods, gluten, refined carbohydrates, refined oils, artificial sweeteners, etc.
  4. Eat a whole food diet – including organic meats, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds based on your tolerance
  5. Apply lifestyle changes that help you manage your daily stress
  6. Take intestinal lining healing nutrients, boost motility

 

 

*This post is only for informational purposes; and not meant to diagnose, or treat any disease. I advise consulting with your healthcare practitioner regarding any treatment options or dietary changes.

SIBO and Thyroid dysfunctions Read More »