Candida, SIBO, and Leaky Gut - What's The Difference?

If you’ve spent any time researching gut health online, you’ve probably seen the terms Candida, SIBO, and leaky gut pop up again and again. They often get lumped together — but they’re not the same thing. Each one involves a different type of imbalance in the gut, and the path to healing varies for each as well.

To clear things up, we’ll break down what these conditions are, how they’re different, and how we help patients get to the root cause of their symptoms here at Vitality Natural Wellness.

1. Candida Overgrowth

Candida is a type of yeast that lives in the body — mostly in the mouth, skin, and gut. In small amounts, it’s harmless. But when the gut ecosystem becomes imbalanced (due to antibiotics, high sugar intake, chronic stress, or a weakened immune system), Candida can overgrow and cause trouble.

Common symptoms:

• Bloating, gas, or irregular bowel movements

• Sugar cravings

• Brain fog

• Fatigue

• Recurring yeast infections or thrush

• Skin rashes or itching

• Feeling “puffy” or inflamed

How we test: We often use functional stool testing (like the GI-MAP) to detect Candida species and get a picture of your overall gut health.

How we treat it: We focus on a phased approach:

• Starve the yeast (through a low-sugar, anti-yeast diet)

• Support the immune system and liver

• Use targeted supplements as needed

• Rebuild the gut microbiome

2. SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

SIBO happens when bacteria that should be in the large intestine migrate into the small intestine — where they don’t belong. This can disrupt digestion and cause fermentation of foods in the wrong place.

Common symptoms:

• Bloating (often worse after eating)

• Gas

• Abdominal pain or pressure

• Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two

• Nutrient deficiencies (like B12 or iron)

• Fatigue

How we test: SIBO assessment is largely based on symptoms patterns, clinical history, and functional stool testing (like the GI-MAP).

How we treat it: SIBO treatment often includes:

• A targeted antimicrobial protocol

• A temporarily low-FODMAP or otherwise gut-sensitive diet

• Supporting motility (the movement of food through the GI tract)

• Restoring a healthy microbiome after treatment

3. Leaky Gut (Intestinal Permeability)

Leaky gut happens when the tight junctions in the intestinal lining become compromised, allowing partially digested food, toxins, and bacteria to "leak" into the bloodstream. This triggers inflammation and can contribute to food sensitivities, autoimmune conditions, and systemic symptoms.

Common symptoms:

• Bloating or discomfort after eating

• Brain fog

• Chronic fatigue

• Joint pain

• Skin issues (like eczema or acne)

• Multiple food sensitivities

• Autoimmune flares

How we test: Markers for intestinal permeability can show up on certain stool or blood tests. We also consider your symptoms, diet history, and overall health picture.

How we treat it: Healing a leaky gut involves:

• Removing inflammatory foods (like gluten, dairy, and processed sugar) and focusing on whole foods that correct nutrient deficiencies and promote healing

• Supporting the gut lining with nutrients like L-glutamine, zinc, and collagen

• Restoring healthy gut flora

• Reducing stress and supporting the nervous system

What If You Have More Than One?

Many patients who come to us have signs of more than one of these conditions — and that’s not unusual. The gut is a complex, interconnected system, and when one part breaks down, it often affects the others.

That’s why we take a personalized approach. Through advanced testing, nutrition plans, and targeted supplementation, we work to get to the root of your gut symptoms and help your body find its way back to balance.

Ready to Heal Your Gut?

If you’re struggling with chronic bloating, brain fog, fatigue, or stubborn skin or immune issues — your gut may be the missing piece. Let’s figure it out together.

Schedule a consultation to get started with functional testing and a personalized plan.