Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a complex and often frustrating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, SIBO can lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and malabsorption of nutrients. While antibiotics and dietary changes are commonly prescribed treatments, many patients find that these approaches only provide temporary relief or fail to address the root cause of the issue. This is where gut-directed hypnotherapy comes in—a powerful, evidence-based tool that can help clear SIBO by addressing the mind-gut connection.

Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Illustration courtesy of Freepik

Understanding SIBO and the Mind-Gut Connection

SIBO occurs when bacteria that normally reside in the large intestine migrate to the small intestine, where they don’t belong. This overgrowth disrupts digestion, leading to the symptoms mentioned above. While factors like diet, antibiotics, and gut motility issues can contribute to SIBO, emerging research highlights the role of stress and the brain-gut axis in the development and persistence of the condition.

The brain-gut axis is a bidirectional communication system between the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system (the “second brain” in the gut). Stress, anxiety, and trauma can disrupt this communication, leading to changes in gut motility, immune function, and bacterial balance. This is why many people with SIBO also struggle with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anxiety, and depression.

What is Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy?

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a specialized form of hypnotherapy designed to address gut-related issues by calming the nervous system and restoring balance to the brain-gut axis. During a session, a trained hypnotherapist guides the patient into a deeply relaxed state and uses visualization, suggestion, and other techniques to promote healing in the gut.

Research has shown that gut-directed hypnotherapy can significantly improve symptoms of IBS, which often overlaps with SIBO. Studies have demonstrated that hypnotherapy can reduce pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements while improving overall quality of life. While less research has specifically focused on SIBO, the principles of gut-directed hypnotherapy make it a promising complementary treatment for this condition.

How Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Can Help Clear SIBO

Reducing Stress and Calming the Nervous System
Chronic stress is a major contributor to SIBO, as it can impair gut motility and create an environment where bacteria thrive. Gut-directed hypnotherapy helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” mode), which counteracts the effects of stress and promotes healthy digestion.
Improving Gut Motility
One of the key factors in SIBO is impaired motility in the small intestine, which allows bacteria to accumulate. Hypnotherapy can help regulate the migrating motor complex (MMC), the wave-like contractions that clear bacteria from the small intestine between meals. By enhancing the MMC, hypnotherapy can help prevent bacterial overgrowth.
Restoring Balance to the Brain-Gut Axis
Hypnotherapy works to rewire the brain-gut connection, reducing hypersensitivity in the gut and improving communication between the brain and the digestive system. This can help alleviate symptoms like pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
Addressing Emotional Triggers
Many people with SIBO have a history of trauma, anxiety, or chronic stress, which can exacerbate gut issues. Hypnotherapy provides a safe space to process and release these emotions, reducing their impact on the gut.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of Other Treatments
Gut-directed hypnotherapy can be used alongside antibiotics, probiotics, and dietary changes to enhance their effectiveness. By addressing the mind-gut connection, hypnotherapy can help create a more favorable environment for healing.

What to Expect in a Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Session

During a gut-directed hypnotherapy session, you’ll be guided into a state of deep relaxation. Your therapist may use imagery, such as visualizing a calm, healing light flowing through your digestive system, or suggest positive affirmations to reinforce healthy gut function. Over time, these sessions can help retrain your brain and gut to work together more harmoniously.

Many people begin to notice improvements in their symptoms after just a few sessions, though the number of sessions needed varies depending on the individual. Hypnotherapy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free approach that can be tailored to your specific needs.

A Holistic Approach to SIBO Healing

While gut-directed hypnotherapy is not a standalone cure for SIBO, it is a valuable tool in a holistic treatment plan. By addressing the mind-gut connection, hypnotherapy can help break the cycle of stress and dysfunction that perpetuates SIBO. Combined with dietary changes, probiotics, and other therapies, it can support long-term healing and help you regain control of your gut health.

If you’re struggling with SIBO and haven’t found relief through conventional treatments, consider exploring gut-directed hypnotherapy. It may be the missing piece in your journey to healing.

About the Author
Antonios Koletsas is a certified hypnotherapist who specializes in gut-directed hypnotherapy for SIBO, IBS, and other digestive disorders. Passionate about helping clients heal from the inside out, Antonios combines evidence-based techniques with a compassionate, personalized approach to support lasting change. Contact Antonios today to learn more about how hypnotherapy can help you reclaim your gut health by submitting the contact form or calling 020 7101 3284.

References

SIBO Overview
Ghoshal, U. C., Shukla, R., & Ghoshal, U. (2017). Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and irritable bowel syndrome: A bridge between functional organic dichotomy. Gut and Liver, 11(2), 196–208. https://doi.org/10.5009/gnl16126
Brain-Gut Axis and Stress
Mayer, E. A., Tillisch, K., & Gupta, A. (2015). Gut/brain axis and the microbiota. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 125(3), 926–938. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI76304
Hypnotherapy for IBS
Whorwell, P. J., Prior, A., & Faragher, E. B. (1984). Controlled trial of hypnotherapy in the treatment of severe refractory irritable bowel syndrome. The Lancet, 324(8414), 1232–1234. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(84)92793-4
MMC Dysfunction and SIBO
Pimentel, M., Soffer, E. E., Chow, E. J., Kong, Y., & Lin, H. C. (2002). Lower frequency of MMC is found in IBS subjects with abnormal lactulose breath test, suggesting bacterial overgrowth. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 47(12), 2639–2643. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021039032413
Stress and Gut Microbiota
Foster, J. A., Rinaman, L., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). Stress & the gut-brain axis: Regulation by the microbiome. Neurobiology of Stress, 7, 124–136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ynstr.2017.03.001
Hypnotherapy and Gut Motility
Simrén, M., Ringström, G., Björnsson, E. S., & Abrahamsson, H. (2004). Treatment with hypnotherapy reduces the sensory and motor component of the gastrocolonic response in irritable bowel syndrome. Psychosomatic Medicine, 66(2), 233–238. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.psy.0000116964.76529.6e
Emotional Triggers and Gut Health
Bradford, K., Shih, W., Videlock, E. J., Presson, A. P., Mayer, E. A., Chang, L., & Naliboff, B. D. (2012). Association between early adverse life events and irritable bowel syndrome. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10(4), 385–390. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2011.12.018
Integrative Approaches to SIBO
Chey, W. D., Kurlander, J., & Eswaran, S. (2015). Irritable bowel syndrome: A clinical review. JAMA, 313(9), 949–958. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.0954
Vagus Nerve and Digestion
Bonaz, B., Sinniger, V., & Pellissier, S. (2017). The vagus nerve in the neuro-immune axis: Implications in the pathology of the gastrointestinal tract. Frontiers in Immunology, 8, 1452. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2017.01452
Rome IV Criteria for Functional Gut Disorders
Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.03.035

by Antonios Koletsas

Health

The top 5 foods to avoid if you have IBS

February 28, 2024

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be challenging, often requiring careful attention to diet and lifestyle choices. As a hypnotherapist specializing in IBS, I understand the importance of identifying trigger foods that can exacerbate symptoms. In this article, we’ll delve into the top five trigger foods to avoid for individuals seeking relief from IBS discomfort.

High-FODMAP Foods: FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are certain types of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. These foods can ferment in the gut, leading to gas, bloating, and discomfort, particularly for individuals with IBS. Common high-FODMAP foods include onions, garlic, wheat, and certain fruits (such as apples and pears). While not everyone with IBS is sensitive to all high-FODMAP foods, it’s wise to limit or avoid them, especially during flare-ups.
Dairy Products: Many individuals with IBS find that dairy products worsen their symptoms. This is often due to lactose intolerance, where the body lacks the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Avoiding or reducing consumption of milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products can alleviate symptoms for many IBS sufferers. Opting for lactose-free alternatives or lactase enzyme supplements may also be helpful.
Spicy and High-Fat Foods: Spicy foods and high-fat meals are notorious for triggering IBS symptoms. Spicy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal lining, leading to inflammation and discomfort, while high-fat foods can slow down digestion and exacerbate symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. Common culprits include fried foods, creamy sauces, spicy curries, and certain condiments. Choosing milder spices and opting for lean protein sources, fruits, and vegetables can help minimize symptoms and promote better digestive health.
Beans and Legumes: While beans and legumes are nutritious sources of protein and fiber, they can be problematic for individuals with IBS due to their high FODMAP content. Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and kidney beans are common examples. These foods can cause gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort, especially when consumed in large quantities or for those with heightened sensitivity to FODMAPs. Experimenting with smaller portions or selecting canned varieties that have been rinsed thoroughly can help reduce their FODMAP content and minimize symptoms.
Artificial Sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners, often found in sugar-free gum, candies, diet sodas, and certain packaged foods, can trigger digestive issues in some individuals with IBS. While they provide a low-calorie alternative to sugar, artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol can be poorly absorbed in the digestive tract, leading to gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Avoiding products containing artificial sweeteners or opting for natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit may help reduce IBS symptoms associated with their consumption.

Identifying and avoiding trigger foods is crucial for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals with IBS. By steering clear of high-FODMAP foods, dairy products, gluten-containing foods, caffeine, alcohol, spicy dishes, and high-fat meals, and being mindful of artificial sweeteners, individuals can better control their symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable life. As a hypnotherapist specializing in IBS, I emphasize the importance of personalized dietary strategies and holistic approaches to symptom management, including hypnotherapy, to achieve lasting relief and well-being.

Gut-directed hypnotherapy offers a powerful adjunct to dietary modifications in managing IBS symptoms effectively. This specialized form of hypnotherapy focuses on harnessing the mind-gut connection to alleviate gastrointestinal distress and improve overall well-being. Through relaxation techniques, visualization, and suggestion, gut-directed hypnotherapy aims to reduce gut hypersensitivity, modulate gut motility, and mitigate stress-related triggers that can exacerbate symptoms. Research has shown promising results, with many individuals experiencing significant reductions in pain, bloating, and diarrhea after undergoing gut-directed hypnotherapy sessions. By addressing the underlying psychological and physiological factors contributing to IBS, hypnotherapy empowers individuals to regain control over their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.

If you are ready to embark on a journey of healing and transformation you can simply fill up the Contact Me form for a complimentary consultation call or just call +44 020 7101 3284

References

Healthline: “Foods to Avoid with IBS”
- URL: https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/foods-to-avoid-with-ibs
Temple Health Blog: “These Foods May Be Making Your IBS Worse”
- URL: https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/these-foods-may-be-making-your-ibs-worse
YorkTest Blog: “Which Foods Trigger IBS Flare-Ups?”
- URL: https://www.yorktest.com/us/blog/which-foods-trigger-ibs-flare-ups/?nab=1&utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
WebMD: “IBS Triggers: Prevention Strategies”
- URL: https://www.webmd.com/ibs/ibs-triggers-prevention-strategies
Medical News Today: “Irritable bowel syndrome: 9 foods to avoid”
- URL: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320876#foods-to-avoid

by Antonios Koletsas

Health, Wellness

Gut-directed Hypnotherapy. A Promising Way To Increase The Healing Of Your Gut.

January 28, 2024

What is gut-directed Hypnotherapy after all? What does it mean? This question is not so simple to answer, but I will do my best to help you understand better how it can help you heal your gut and improve your IBS symptoms.

It’s all about the gut and brain connection, that’s the simple answer but what is the gut-brain connection? how does my gut connect with my brain? I thought they were very separate organs that do not communicate directly with each other, you might say. Well, research has shown that your brain and your gut are excellent friends and communicate with each other all the time via the spinal cord and the vagus nerve.

Neural Superhighways: The Spinal Cord and Vagus Nerve

The spinal cord and the vagus nerve emerge as the neural superhighways facilitating the constant dialogue between the gut and brain. The spinal cord serves as a primary conduit for information exchange, allowing signals to travel bi-directionally. Notably, sensory information from the gut, such as feelings of fullness or discomfort, ascends through the spinal cord to reach the brain, providing a real-time status update.

Meanwhile, the vagus nerve, a prominent component of the parasympathetic nervous system, establishes a direct link between the brain and various abdominal organs, including the gut. This cranial nerve orchestrates a symphony of communication, transmitting signals in both directions. Importantly, the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, from digestion to emotional responses.

And how Hypnotherapy can help me with this?

Let’s have a look!

Unlocking the Healing Potential: Hypnotherapy and the Gut-Brain Harmony

For individuals navigating the intricate dance between the gut and the brain, hypnotherapy emerges as a promising ally on the path to well-being. Beyond its portrayal as a mesmerizing art, hypnotherapy showcases tangible benefits for those seeking to enhance their gut-brain connection and foster overall health.

1. Stress Alleviation: A Soothing Balm for the Gut-Brain Axis

Amid our fast-paced lives, stress often takes center stage, impacting the delicate balance of the gut-brain axis. Hypnotherapy, with its ability to induce a profound state of relaxation, acts as a soothing balm for the nervous system. By reducing stress levels, hypnotherapy may play a pivotal role in restoring equilibrium to the gut-brain connection, alleviating symptoms related to digestive discomfort and promoting a sense of calm.

2. Illuminating the Mind-Body Symphony

Hypnotherapy has the unique ability to illuminate the intricate symphony between mind and body. Through heightened awareness and focused attention, individuals can gain insights into the subtle signals emanating from their gut. This enhanced mind-body connection fosters a conscious and intentional approach to managing gut-related symptoms, empowering individuals to participate actively in their healing journey.

3. Empowering Transformation in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

For those grappling with functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypnotherapy emerges as a beacon of hope. Clinical evidence suggests that hypnotherapy can bring about positive transformations, offering relief from symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating. The therapeutic power of hypnosis, possibly influencing the autonomic nervous system, contributes to a reduction in gut hypersensitivity, paving the way for improved gut health.

4. Cultivating Positive Behavioral Changes: A Guiding Light

Hypnotherapy serves as a guiding light for individuals seeking to embark on a journey of positive behavioral change. By addressing underlying psychological factors that may contribute to unhealthy eating habits or lifestyle choices, hypnotherapy empowers individuals to embrace habits conducive to gut health. This approach goes beyond the surface, delving into the subconscious to instill lasting, positive transformations.

5. Nurturing Emotional Resilience: Beyond Symptom Management

Chronic gastrointestinal conditions often take an emotional toll. Hypnotherapy steps in to nurture emotional resilience, providing individuals with tools to manage anxiety, enhance mood, and foster a positive outlook. The emotional support offered by hypnotherapy becomes an integral part of the healing process, transcending mere symptom management.

6. Redefining Pain Perception: A Gateway to Comfort

For those grappling with gut-related pain or discomfort, hypnotherapy offers a unique gateway to redefine pain perception. By influencing the brain’s response to pain signals, hypnotherapy may contribute to a reduction in the intensity of symptoms. This transformative aspect not only eases physical discomfort but also fosters a renewed sense of comfort and well-being.

If you are ready to unlock the healing powers that you hold within, I’d be more than happy to be part of it. To book your free consultation just click here or call 020 7101 3284.

by Antonios Koletsas

Health

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy: A Promising Approach for Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

November 24, 2023

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms of IBS can include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While there is no cure for IBS, there are a number of treatments available that can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

One promising approach for managing IBS is gut-directed hypnotherapy. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a type of psychotherapy that involves a trained therapist guiding a person into a focused state of awareness while feeling deeply relaxed. During this state, the therapist uses suggestion, imagery, and relaxation techniques to produce a therapeutic effect.

The goal of gut-directed hypnotherapy is to address the “miscommunication” between the brain and the gut. This miscommunication is believed to play a role in the development of IBS symptoms. By using hypnotherapy to calm the digestive tract and reduce sensitivity to discomfort, gut-directed hypnotherapy can help to improve IBS symptoms.

Studies have shown that gut-directed hypnotherapy can be very effective for managing IBS. In fact, some studies have shown that the therapy can improve IBS symptoms by 70-80%. The effects of gut-directed hypnotherapy are also long-lasting, with many people continuing to experience symptom relief months or even years after completing treatment.

The exact mechanisms of how gut-directed hypnotherapy works are not fully understood, but it is believed to have multiple potential actions on the brain-gut axis. Some of these actions include:

Improving motility, or the movement of food through the digestive tract
Reducing sensitivity to pain and discomfort
Calming the nervous system
Changing how the brain perceives and interprets pain signals

Gut-directed hypnotherapy typically involves several sessions over weeks or months. The number of sessions needed will vary depending on the individual’s response to therapy. After completing treatment, some people may choose to have ongoing sessions to maintain results and address or prevent future flare-ups.

Overall, gut-directed hypnotherapy appears to be an effective and long-lasting treatment option for individuals with IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders. If you are considering gut-directed hypnotherapy, it is important to find a qualified therapist who has experience working with people with IBS.

Additional Tips

To further enhance the effectiveness of gut-directed hypnotherapy, it is important to combine the therapy with other lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
Gut-directed hypnotherapy is generally safe for most people, but there are a few potential side effects, such as anxiety, headache, and drowsiness.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any serious medical conditions, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting gut-directed hypnotherapy.

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a promising treatment option for individuals with IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders. If you are struggling with IBS, talk to your doctor about whether gut-directed hypnotherapy may be right for you.

To book your consultation call 020 7101 3284 or click this button.

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hypnotherapy/

https://www.monashfodmap.com/blog/how-effective-is-gut-directed/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1773844/

by Antonios Koletsas