What are the best foods to eat if you have Methane or Hydrogen SIBO?
So now that you know about the main foods to avoid for methane and Hydrogen SIBO, let’s look at the best foods to eat for SIBO.
Rule 1. Eat protein at every meal
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Protein is safe for SIBO because it undergoes minimal fermentation in the gut, unlike carbohydrates and certain fibers. This means it will not feed bacteria and archea leading to gas and bloating.
Carbohydrates on the other hand can feed bacteria in the small intestine, leading to the production of gases like methane and hydrogen, which cause bloating, discomfort, and other SIBO symptoms.
Lean meats, fish, eggs, and firm tofu are excellent low-FODMAP protein options that don’t fuel bacterial or archaea overgrowth.
Protein is digested slowly, providing a steady source of energy and helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. This is important because unstable blood sugar can contribute to cravings for high-carbohydrate foods, which can feed bacterial overgrowth. By focusing on protein-rich foods, you’re less likely to consume excessive carbohydrates that worsen SIBO symptoms.
Animal proteins and plant proteins to include and avoid on a Low-FODMAP diet for individuals with SIBO:
Protein Source | Include | Avoid | Reason |
---|---|---|---|
Animal Proteins | – Chicken – Turkey – Beef – Pork – Fish (e.g., salmon, tuna) – Eggs | – Processed meats (e.g., sausages, deli meats) | Fresh meats are naturally low in FODMAPs, while processed meats often contain additives and preservatives that may trigger symptoms. |
Plant Proteins | – Firm tofu – Tempeh – Edamame | – Lentils (in large amounts) – Chickpeas | Firm tofu and tempeh are low FODMAP; however, legumes like lentils and chickpeas can be high in FODMAPs and may exacerbate symptoms. |
Allowed Vegetables for SIBO Diet
Choose from any of these vegetables in the table below and add them to your protein.
While these are general guidelines it’s important to remember that individual responses to foods can vary. For instance, some people may still react to vegetables like kale or aubergine (eggplant), even though they are considered low-FODMAP.
Always listen to your body and work with a healthcare professional to tailor your diet to your specific needs. Clinically I find that courgettes and green beans are very well tolerated.
Vegetable | Why It’s Allowed for SIBO |
---|---|
Spinach | Low in fermentable carbohydrates, spinach is easy to digest and provides essential vitamins and minerals. |
Carrots | Carrots are low in FODMAPs, non-starchy, and rich in fiber, without causing gas or bloating. |
Zucchini (Courgette) | Low in fermentable sugars and well tolerated by most people with SIBO, zucchini adds texture and nutrients without gas. |
Bell Peppers | Bell peppers are low-FODMAP and provide vitamins like A and C without the risk of fermentation in the small intestine. |
Cucumber | High in water content and low in FODMAPs, cucumbers are hydrating and easy to digest, making them SIBO-friendly. |
Green Beans | Low in fermentable fibers, green beans are a great source of vitamins and minerals while being gentle on digestion. |
Lettuce | Lettuce, particularly iceberg and romaine, is low in FODMAPs and non-fermentable, making it safe and easy to digest. |
Kale (Small Amounts) | Kale is considered low-FODMAP in smaller portions and provides antioxidants, but larger amounts may cause bloating. |
Eggplant (Aubergine) | Low in FODMAPs, eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed without causing fermentation or gas. |
Tomato | Tomatoes are low-FODMAP and offer a good source of antioxidants without triggering bloating or fermentation. |
Parsnips | Lower in FODMAPs, parsnips provide fiber and nutrients, making them an acceptable root vegetable for SIBO. |
Chives | Chives are a safe, low-FODMAP alternative to onions, offering flavor without the fermentable carbohydrates. |
Bok Choy | Low in FODMAPs, bok choy is a non-starchy vegetable that can be digested easily, providing vitamins without gas. |
Spinach | A great leafy green, spinach is low in FODMAPs and provides iron and fiber without triggering SIBO symptoms. |
Swiss Chard | Swiss chard is low-FODMAP and a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, without contributing to gas production. |
Rule 3. Add small handful of carbohydrate with your protein
Carbohydrates are allowed but ony in small quantities as they can cause fermentation, gas, wind and bloating.
Limit to palm /handsize alongside your protein and vegetables.
Here’s a table of allowed carbohydrates on a Low-FODMAP diet, particularly useful for managing SIBO: Remember only have a handful with your protein.
Carbohydrate Type | Specific Foods | Reason Allowed |
---|---|---|
Rice | White rice, brown rice | Low-FODMAP and easily digestible; does not ferment in the gut. |
Quinoa | Plain quinoa | Gluten-free, low-FODMAP grain alternative, high in protein and fiber. |
Oats | gluten-free oats | Low-FODMAP in small portions; good for breakfast and snacks. |
Potatoes | White potatoes (boiled, baked) | Naturally low in FODMAPs, avoid sweet potatoes in large amounts due to mannitol. |
Polenta | Plain polenta | Corn-based and gluten-free; low-FODMAP when eaten in moderate portions. |
Corn products | Corn tortillas, cornmeal (in moderate portions) | Low-FODMAP if consumed in small amounts, good for alternative bread choices. |
Gluten-free bread/wraps | Bread made from rice, corn, or potato flour | Low-FODMAP alternative to traditional wheat bread. |
Gluten-free pasta | Pasta made from rice or corn | Safe alternative to wheat-based pasta; low in FODMAPs. |
Buckwheat | Buckwheat groats or flour | Naturally gluten-free and low-FODMAP; rich in nutrients and fiber. |
Tapioca | Tapioca pearls, tapioca flour | Low-FODMAP and easily digestible; often used in gluten-free baking. |
Rule 4. It is best not to snack if you have SIBO but if you do you may have these foods.
Ideally you should have a 4 hour gap in between meals to stimulate the Migrating Motor Complex
The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) is a crucial mechanism in the digestive system that helps to keep the small intestine clean and free from bacterial overgrowth.
ating too frequently can disrupt the MMC, preventing it from performing its cleansing function. By allowing a 4-hour gap between meals, you give the MMC time to activate and clear out excess bacteria and food remnants, which is particularly important in managing SIBO. This helps reduce symptoms like bloating, gas, and discomfort associated with bacterial overgrowth.
Snack | Why It’s Good for SIBO |
---|---|
Lactose-Free Yogurt with Strawberries | Lactose-free yogurt is easy to digest and low in FODMAPs, while strawberries are low-fructose and safe for SIBO. |
Carrot Sticks with 1 tablespoon Hummus (Low-FODMAP) | Carrot sticks are non-fermentable and easy on digestion, and low-FODMAP hummus made from canned chickpeas is safe. |
Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter | Rice cakes are low-FODMAP and gluten-free, and peanut butter (in moderation) is also low in fermentable fibers. |
Boiled Eggs | Eggs are a high-protein, non-fermentable snack that doesn’t fuel bacterial overgrowth, making them ideal for SIBO. |
Blueberries with Coconut Yogurt | Blueberries are low in fructose, and coconut yogurt (unsweetened) is a lactose-free and gut-friendly option. |
Cucumber Slices with Tuna | Cucumbers are hydrating and low in FODMAPs, and tuna provides protein without contributing to gas or bloating. |
Hard Cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan) | Hard cheeses are low in lactose and provide protein and calcium without fermenting in the gut. |
Pumpkin Seeds (Unsalted) | Pumpkin seeds are low in fermentable fibers and provide healthy fats and protein, perfect for a SIBO-friendly snack. |
Oatmeal with Almond Butter | Gluten-free oats (in moderation) are low-FODMAP, and almond butter adds healthy fat and protein for sustained energy. |
Lactose-Free Cottage Cheese | Lactose-free cottage cheese is low in FODMAPs and high in protein, making it a filling and safe option. |
Bell Pepper Slices with Guacamole | Bell peppers are low-FODMAP, and guacamole (made from avocado in moderation) is packed with healthy fats and flavor. |
Kiwis with Coconut Shavings | Kiwis are low in FODMAPs and a great source of vitamin C, while unsweetened coconut adds flavor without fermentable sugars. |
Turkey Roll-Ups | Slices of turkey breast wrapped in lettuce or cucumbers are low in FODMAPs and offer a high-protein, gut-friendly snack. |
Chia Pudding (made with Almond Milk) | Chia seeds are low in FODMAPs and full of fiber, and when made with almond milk, this snack is lactose-free and safe. |
Rice Crackers with Hard-Boiled Eggs | Rice crackers are gluten-free and low-FODMAP, paired with eggs for protein, this snack helps you feel full without causing fermentation. |
Rule 5: Eat all food groups
When it comes to lunch and dinner, the key is to create balanced meals that focus on protein, vegetables, and a small amount of low-fermentable carbohydrates.
Meal Plan Table
Meal Plan | Protein | Vegetables | Carbs (Small Portion) |
---|---|---|---|
Meal Plan 1 | Baked salmon | Roasted green beans, steamed spinach | Quinoa |
Meal Plan 2 | Grilled turkey breast | Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini | Mashed potatoes (no skin) |
Meal Plan 3 | Stir-fried firm tofu | Bok choy, carrots (lightly stir-fried) | Rice noodles (made from white rice) |
Meal Plan 4 | Grilled shrimp/prawns | Sautéed zucchini, chard | Brown rice |
Meal Plan 5 | Pan-fried cod | Roasted eggplant, carrots | Polenta (cornmeal) |
Meal Plan 6 | Grilled chicken thighs | Steamed broccoli (small portion), green beans | Buckwheat |
Meal Plan 7 | Scrambled eggs (2 eggs) | Wilted spinach, sautéed mushrooms (small amt.) | Gluten-free toast (low-FODMAP grains) |
Rule 6. Have healthy fats
When managing SIBO, it’s important to include healthy fats in your diet to ensure proper nutrition without exacerbating symptoms. Here are some fats that are generally well-tolerated and beneficial for SIBO:
Healthy Fats for SIBO:
- Olive Oil: A great source of monounsaturated fats that is easy to digest and anti-inflammatory.
- Coconut Oil (in moderation): Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily absorbed and can have antimicrobial properties.
- Avocado Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats and suitable for cooking at higher temperatures.
- Ghee (Clarified Butter): Lactose-free and well-tolerated by many people with SIBO. It also contains beneficial fatty acids.
- Butter (in small amounts): If tolerated, grass-fed butter in small quantities can be included, but make sure it’s lactose-free.
- Flaxseed Oil: Provides omega-3 fatty acids and is usually gentle on the digestive system. Use cold in salads or smoothies.
- Fish Oil (from supplements): A source of omega-3 fatty acids, it supports gut health and reduces inflammation.
- Chia Seeds (in moderation): Provides omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, but should be consumed in small amounts as they may cause bloating for some people.
- Nut and Seed Oils (e.g., Almond Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil): These can be included in moderation, but avoid nut butters with added sugars or oils that can ferment.
Rule 7. Small amounts of Alcohol
If you must drink, we recommend gin and vodka with soda water and lime or very dry wine.
FAQ: How long should I follow the SIBO diet for?
The length of time you should follow a SIBO-friendly diet, such as the Low-FODMAP diet, varies depending on individual progress and the severity of your symptoms. Typically, the diet is followed in three phases:
- Elimination Phase (4-8 weeks):
In this phase, you strictly avoid high-FODMAP foods and other triggers to reduce bacterial overgrowth and symptoms like bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort. This phase can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, but it may vary based on how quickly your symptoms improve. - Reintroduction Phase (6-8 weeks):
After your symptoms have stabilized, you begin to reintroduce high-FODMAP foods one at a time to identify your individual triggers. This phase usually lasts 6 to 8 weeks and helps tailor the diet to your specific needs. - Maintenance Phase (Ongoing):
Once you’ve identified your triggers, you can continue to follow a personalized, balanced diet that avoids the foods that cause your symptoms while allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods. The maintenance phase is long-term and is about managing your symptoms while maintaining gut health.
FAQ: Can I follow the SIBO diet if I am vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, you can follow a SIBO-friendly diet as a vegan or vegetarian, but it requires careful planning to avoid high-FODMAP plant-based foods. Focus on low-FODMAP protein sources like firm tofu, tempeh, quinoa, and chia seeds, while avoiding high-FODMAP legumes such as lentils and chickpeas. Incorporate a variety of low-FODMAP vegetables and grains, and consider supplementation for nutrients like B12 and iron. It’s recommended to consult a nutritionist to ensure you meet your nutritional needs while managing SIBO symptoms.
FAQ: Can I eat potatoes on a SIBO diet ?
References
- Staudacher HM, Lomer MC, Anderson JL, Barrett JS, Muir JG, Irving PM. Fermentable carbohydrate restriction reduces luminal bifidobacteria and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. J Nutr. 2012 Feb;142(2):151-6. doi: 10.3945/jn.111.152207. PMID: 22223576.
- Ong DK, Mitchell SB, Barrett JS, Shepherd SJ, Irving PM, Biesiekierski JR, Gibson PR, Muir JG. Manipulation of dietary short-chain carbohydrates alters the pattern of gas production and genesis of symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2010 Aug;25(8):1366-73. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2010.06370.x. PMID: 20659225.
- Halmos EP, Power VA, Shepherd SJ, Gibson PR, Muir JG. A diet low in FODMAPs reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology. 2014 Jan;146(1):67-75.e5. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2013.09.046. PMID: 24076059.
- Chumpitazi BP, Weidler EM, Shulman RJ. The low FODMAP diet for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in children: a randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr. 2015 Jul;166(5):985-990.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2014.12.034. PMID: 25662702.
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Author – Victoria Tyler BSc Hons MBANT
Victoria Tyler owns and runs two busy clinics : Nutrition and Vitality and the IBS and Gut Disorder Clinic.
Nutrition and Vitality, along with the IBS and Gut Disorder Clinic, were founded with the goal of helping patients alleviate IBS symptoms by uncovering and addressing the root causes of their digestive issues.
As a Registered Nutritional Therapist, Victoria holds a BSc (Hons) in Nutritional Therapy and has trained with the Institute of Functional Medicine. She is also accredited by BANT and CNHC.
Before transitioning into health, Victoria earned a degree in Economics and an MBA, working with corporations including Canon and Vodafone. However, her own health challenges led her to pursue a career in Nutritional Therapy.
With a passion for learning, Victoria is committed to staying at the forefront of Functional Medicine. She helps patients manage IBS and other digestive disorders, including SIBO, Candida, and IBD, by identifying and addressing their root causes.
Victoria strongly believes that every symptom has an underlying cause, and there is always a solution to every health condition. To learn more, or to see patient reviews, visit Victoria’s profile on Google.
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