Most of the herbals that we would use as effective SIBO antimicrobials are contraindicated during pregnancy, and some herbs can stimulate early contractions. Additionally, I don't recommend causing a heightened immune or detoxification in pregnant clients during the first trimester. The two antimicrobials that I feel comfortable using with my clients are aged garlic and ginger.
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has been studied in pregnant women for its ability to improve nausea symptoms, and has been found to be safe (1)). Ginger also possesses a range of antimicrobial properties and even some mild antibiofilm properties (2, 3)) while also improving motility.
For part of a SIBO or 'IBS' protocol, I use 1,000mg of a ginger root supplement daily (e.g. 500mg morning and 500mg night away from food).
has also been shown to have positive effects on oxidative stress and blood sugar during pregnancy, and has been reported to be safe in doses of 400mg daily (4). Aged garlic has been documented to positively shift the microbiome, promoting the growth of lactobacillus and short chain fatty acid producing organisms (5).
I must begin by saying there aren't any studies (that I am aware of) on MCT oil in pregnancy, however it is generally considered safe. Coconut oil (and MCTs) are well documented as exerting antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria and yeasts, and effective against biofilm formation (6, 7, 8, 9, 10).
I also use 600mg of NAC once per day (e.g. in the morning with the garlic and ginger), this has been shown to have positive effects during pregnancy and possesses anti biofilm properties (11).
AM, away from food
1 tsp MCT oil
400mg Aged Garlic
500mg Ginger
600mg NAC
PM, away from food
1 tsp MCT oil
500mg Ginger
Remember, I don't suggest this protocol until the second trimester with my clients.