Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth

Definition

Excessive proliferation of fungi (Candida or other) in the small intestine, causing malabsorption and symptoms similar to SIBO.

How it works

SIFO is the fungal equivalent of SIBO, involving excessive proliferation of fungi rather than bacteria in the small intestine. Causes include bacterial dysbiosis (reducing competing bacteria), inadequate antifungal treatments, immunodepression, and high-sugar diets. Fungi ferment sugars and produce symptoms similar to SIBO: bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, malabsorption. Diagnosis is difficult (no standard validated test); treatment combines antifungals, low-sugar diet, and restoration of bacterial microbiome.

Role

Causes fungal malabsorption and debilitating digestive symptoms.

Examples

• Candida albicans SIFO
• Candida auris SIFO
• Saccharomyces cerevisiae SIFO
• Difficult to diagnose

Recommendations

If suspecting SIFO, eliminate simple sugars and fermented foods. Ask for a specialized test from your healthcare professional. Restore your bacterial microbiome after antifungal treatment.

Key takeaway

SIFO is difficult to diagnose but treatable with antifungals and restoration of bacterial microbiome.

Related terms