Nutrition for Gut Health – IBS, SIBO & the Microbiome

Nutrition therapy for gut disorders – IBS, SIBO, the microbiome

Based on the approach of Monash University – the leader in low-FODMAP research – the course focuses on practical, clinical work with clients rather than restrictive eliminations alone.

The programme integrates current data from gastroenterology, clinical nutrition and research on the gut microbiota and the gut–brain axis.

Key areas of the course

IBS and gut–brain interaction disorders

Irritable bowel syndrome is classified as a disorder of gut–brain interaction (DGBI). We cover:

• visceral hypersensitivity
• gut motility disorders
• the role of stress and the gut–brain axis

SIBO – diagnosis and nutrition therapy

• interpreting breath tests (H₂/CH₄)
• differences between hydrogen and methane SIBO
• dietary strategies (low FODMAP vs individual modifications)

The low-FODMAP diet – a practical approach

The 3-phase model developed by Monash University:

Elimination (2–6 weeks) ↓ Reintroduction (testing FODMAP groups) ↓ Personalisation (individual tolerance)

• the effect of FODMAPs on fermentation and gas production
• the risk of excessive restriction → impact on the microbiota

The gut microbiota and inflammation

Gut dysbiosis is linked to:

• increased intestinal permeability
• immune system activation
• chronic inflammation

Mechanism: dysbiosis → ↑ intestinal permeability (leaky gut) → LPS translocation → immune activation → inflammation

The gut, skin and mental health

Clinical links:

• acne and atopic dermatitis
• mood disorders (anxiety, depression)

Mechanisms:

• microbial metabolites (SCFA)
• inflammatory cytokines
• neurotransmitter modulation (e.g. serotonin)

Probiotics, fibre and herbal medicine

• strain-specific effects of probiotics (evidence-based)
• soluble fibre (e.g. psyllium) → improvement in IBS
• fermentable fibre → effect on SCFA
• peppermint oil
• berberine
• antibacterial preparations in SIBO

Gut psychosomatics

• stress as a factor that modulates IBS symptoms
• cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
• relaxation techniques
• modulating the gut–brain axis

Clinical approach – working with clients

1. Diagnosis (symptoms + tests)
2. Nutrition intervention (low FODMAP / personalisation)
3. Microbiota support (probiotics + fibre)
4. Lifestyle regulation (stress, sleep)
5. Reintroduction and long-term strategy