5 Hidden Signs & Symptoms of SIBO Testing and Treatment in the UK

By Sarah Flower, Nutritionist and Author

If you’re dealing with a range of SIBO symptoms such as persistent bloating, fatigue, or digestive issues that don’t seem to resolve — even with a “healthy” diet — it could be more than just IBS. One often-overlooked cause is SIBO, or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth.

In this article, I’ll walk you through what SIBO is, the subtle signs you might be missing, and what you can do to get back on track. You can also download my free SIBO Guide packed with practical advice, testing options, and natural treatment strategies.

What Is SIBO And do you have SIBO Symptoms?

SIBO occurs when bacteria that should remain in the large intestine begin to overgrow in the small intestine. These misplaced bacteria ferment food before it’s fully digested, releasing gases like hydrogen and methane. This leads to a range of uncomfortable symptoms — many of which overlap with IBS, reflux, or candida.

5 Hidden Signs of SIBO

1. Bloating after eating – especially healthy foods

If you feel swollen or gassy after meals rich in fibre, legumes, or even vegetables, it could be due to fermentation from overgrown bacteria in the small intestine.

2. Constipation or diarrhoea

   Constipation is often linked to methane-dominant SIBO

   Diarrhoea is commonly associated with hydrogen-dominant SIBO

Many people alternate between both.

3. Fatigue and brain fog

Bacterial overgrowth affects nutrient absorption, especially vitamin B12 and iron — leading to low energy, brain fog, and poor concentration.

4. Skin issues (rosacea, acne, rashes)

Skin is often a reflection of gut health. SIBO can contribute to inflammatory skin conditions, especially rosacea.

5. Food intolerances that seem to keep growing

Suddenly reacting to dairy, gluten, garlic/onions, or high-histamine foods? That may be a sign of leaky gut triggered by SIBO.

How Is SIBO Diagnosed?

I offer private SIBO breath testing, which measures hydrogen and methane gas production after a glucose or lactulose drink. The results help us determine:

• The type of SIBO (hydrogen, methane, or hydrogen sulphide)

• The best approach for clearing overgrowth

• How to tailor your treatment plan

For a deeper understanding of your gut health, I also recommend comprehensive stool testing to assess inflammation, candida, parasites, dysbiosis, and more.

🔗 Learn more about my Gut & SIBO Package here

My Functional Approach to Treating SIBO

While antibiotics are sometimes used, I find natural protocols to be more effective and better tolerated long-term. My approach often includes:

• Herbal antimicrobials specific to what is discovered in testing

• Biofilm disruptors

• Gut lining repair

• Targeted probiotics (only when appropriate)

• A phased, gentle food approach to reduce symptoms without creating fear around food

Download Your Free SIBO Guide

Ready to dive deeper? Download my free PDF guide, which includes:

• An in-depth explanation of SIBO types

• Natural treatment options

• The connection between SIBO, candida, and leaky gut

• Testing and supplement support

Click here to download the guide

Let’s Talk

You don’t have to live with ongoing gut symptoms. If you’re ready to get to the root cause and start your healing journey, I’m here to help.

Book a free 15-minute discovery call here

Or contact me