SIFO (Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth)
SIFO is when there is an abnormal increase in fungi (most commonly Candida species) in the small intestine.
Overview
SIFO is when there is an abnormal increase in fungi (most commonly Candida species) in the small intestine. While fungi can naturally exist in small amounts throughout the gut, overgrowth in the small bowel can cause bloating, discomfort, and other digestive symptoms. Unlike SIBO, which involves bacteria, SIFO involves fungi — but both can occur together. Research on SIFO is newer and smaller in scale, but studies suggest it may be present in a significant proportion of people with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms (clinicalgastrohepatology.com).
Common Misunderstandings
Because SIFO can’t be diagnosed with standard stool tests, many people are told their symptoms have “no obvious cause” or are purely functional. Some patients go through repeated bacterial treatments without relief, unaware a fungal overgrowth may be contributing. This uncertainty can be frustrating and lead to years of trial-and-error with diets and supplements.
How is SIFO Linked to Your Microbiome?
The gut microbiome includes both bacteria and fungi — collectively known as the “microbiota”.
- Studies show SIFO often occurs alongside bacterial imbalances, suggesting a broader microbiome disruption (nature.com).
- Certain antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications can reduce bacterial competition, allowing fungi to thrive (clinicalgastrohepatology.com).
- Fungal overgrowth may trigger inflammation, alter nutrient absorption, and interact with the immune system in ways that worsen gut symptoms.
- Evidence indicates SIFO is a consequence and potential contributor to ongoing gut issues, especially when bacterial dysbiosis is also present.
Symptoms
Bloating or abdominal distention
Excess wind or belching
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Alternating bowel habits
Abdominal discomfort or cramping
Brain fog or fatigue
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for SIFO includes:
Gut Microbiome Test
Profile the gut to identify dysbiosis that may be affecting symptoms or treatment using the Gut Microbiome Test.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based or pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Nutrition strategies to support recovery and enhance your overall health such as a tailored low-FODMAP diet or fibre consumptions strategies.
Suspect you might have SIFO?
