Starting SIBO Treatment: Phase 1
SIBO Treatment: Phase One
In my last post, I mentioned that I would share my SIBO treatment protocol. Below is an overview of what Phase One looks like for me.
For the first two weeks, I’ll be taking the medications and supplements listed below and paying close attention to how I feel. If my stomach symptoms don’t improve after two weeks, the protocol can be repeated. If needed, it can be repeated up to three times.
Phase 1 Protocol
For 14 days, I will:
Take Xifaxan three times daily with meals
Take Neem twice daily alongside Xifaxan
Take a biofilm disruptor twice daily between meals
Take SunFiber by Tomorrow’s Nutrition - get 10% off by using promo code FREWERT10
Continue taking Calm magnesium powder
Breaking It Down
According to siboinfo.com, Xifaxan (or its generic form, rifaximin) stays within the intestines and is considered a targeted antibiotic. It’s thought to be anti-inflammatory and may help support the gut microbiome by increasing beneficial bacteria.
One downside is that Xifaxan can be expensive. Fortunately, I had already met my insurance deductible, which helped reduce the cost. If your practitioner recommends Xifaxan, there is also a savings program available, which I’ll link on the Resources page.
Neem is an herbal supplement taken alongside Xifaxan to support detoxification. As bacteria die off during treatment, detoxification becomes especially important. I’ll share more about detoxification in a future post.
The biofilm disruptor is taken twice daily between meals and is meant to break down the biofilm where bacteria can hide — similar to how plaque forms on teeth.
SunFiber was recommended to support regular bowel movements and detoxification. I was advised to start with a small sprinkle and gradually work up to a full scoop each day. My plan is to add it to my morning coffee and slowly increase the amount over time.
Where Can I Get These Supplements?
Xifaxan is a prescription medication that can be filled at a local pharmacy.
Neem can be purchased from Fullscript or Amazon. I used Organic India’s brand.
Biofilm Disruptor can be purchased from Fullscript or Amazon. I used BioFilm CLR by Apex Energetics.
SunFiber can be purchased through Fullscript, Amazon and Tomorrow’s Nutrition. If you use this link, you will be directed to the Tomorrow’s Nutrition website and will save 10% off your first order by using the promo code Frewert10.
Postscript: SunFiber is one of the things I use daily to maintain consistent, productive bowel movements.
Why Detoxification Matters During Treatment
Because I’ve been having more regular bowel movements with Calm magnesium powder, Jazmin recommended that I continue taking it throughout treatment.
Enhancing Detoxification During Treatment
Jazmin explained that while I’m following the treatment plan, I need to focus on detoxification to flush out the bacteria. These are some ways I can promote detoxification:
Sauna
Dry brushing – see resources
Lymphatic massage
Rebounding
Epsom salt baths
Stay hydrated
Gargle, hum, sing
In my next post, I’ll share how this first round of treatment goes and what I notice along the way.
If you’ve gone through SIBO treatment, what was your experience like? Did you notice improvements during or after treatment?