Your questions answered
I'm Simone Jeffries, BHSc (Naturopathy), a naturopath and perimenopause coach focusing on women's health on Sydney's Northern Beaches.
Below I've answered the questions I hear most often from women seeking natural support for their health.
Common questions about digestive health and SIBO
What is gut microbiome testing and do I need one?
Gut microbiome testing can answer the question you've been asking for months or even years: what's actually causing my digestive symptoms? The GI Map (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive stool test that shows the types and quantities of bacteria, fungi, parasites, and markers for intestinal health. For women (and men) dealing with persistent bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or abdominal cramping, this testing takes the guesswork out of recovery.
"I recommend the GI Map for most of my clients with ongoing digestive issues because it gives us such detailed information. We can see bacterial imbalances, Candida overgrowth, markers for leaky gut like zonulin levels, and even your digestive enzyme function. This comprehensive picture allows me to create bespoke herbal formulas targeted to exactly what's showing up in YOUR gut - not just a generic protocol. This is why my clients often get faster results - we're working with precise information, not assumptions." - Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), Sydney Northern Beaches
According to CSIRO research, at least 50% of Australian adults experience unpleasant gut symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation, and 1 in 7 experience distressing symptoms. Understanding what's driving these symptoms through comprehensive testing allows for more targeted approaches to gut health.
What the GI Map actually reveals
The GI Map uses advanced DNA technology to detect:
Bacterial balance: Both beneficial bacteria (like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species) and potentially problematic bacteria that might be overgrown. Imbalances here can cause bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, and that uncomfortable feeling of fullness after eating. Around 90% of women with endometriosis show altered gut microbiome compared to women without endometriosis - these imbalances matter for more than just digestion.
Fungal overgrowth: This is where Candida testing becomes so important. Many people suspect they have Candida overgrowth based on symptoms like bloating, sugar cravings, fatigue, and thrush - but the only way to know for sure is to test. The GI Map uses PCR/DNA testing, which is the most accurate way to detect Candida species in your digestive system. I see Candida overgrowth very commonly in clinical practice, and it absolutely can cause the bloating, constipation, and abdominal discomfort you're experiencing. But you don't want to spend months on an anti-Candida protocol if it's not actually there - that's why testing matters. Read more about a holistic approach to Candida
Parasites and pathogens: Including bacteria like Helicobacter pylori, which is crucial to identify. H. pylori lowers stomach acid, making it difficult to digest protein and absorb nutrients like iron. Some women with persistent low iron levels discover H. pylori is the underlying cause. When stomach acid is low, it creates an environment where pathogens can thrive and allows bacterial overgrowth and Candida to flourish. The GI Map can also detect post-infectious organisms that might have triggered your symptoms months or years ago after a bout of food poisoning or gastro.
Gluten sensitivity markers: The GI Map measures anti-gliadin IgA, which indicates whether gluten is triggering an immune response in your gut. This is genuinely important because some people have been avoiding wheat for years, convinced they're gluten intolerant, only to discover through testing that it's actually the carbohydrates (FODMAPs) in wheat causing their symptoms - not the gluten at all. According to the Gastroenterological Society of Australia, "Most people with IBS don't have an allergy or intolerance to gluten, but often they can't tolerate the fructans in many gluten-containing breads and cereals." This distinction completely changes your dietary approach and could mean you've been unnecessarily restricting foods that are perfectly fine for you.
Intestinal permeability markers: High zonulin levels indicate "leaky gut" - when your intestinal barrier becomes more permeable than it should be, allowing toxins, bacteria and undigested food particles into your bloodstream. This can cause widespread inflammation, food intolerances, and worsening digestive symptoms. You can read more about this in my detailed blog: Everything you need to know about leaky gut.
Digestive function: Markers showing how well you're producing digestive enzymes and stomach acid, and whether you have inflammation in your gut. Low stomach acid or poor enzyme production can directly cause bloating, undigested food in your stool, and nutrient deficiencies.
The art of interpretation: understanding your unique results
After analysing hundreds of GI Map results over the years, I've developed a deep understanding of how all the markers relate to each other and to your individual symptoms. The GI Map isn't just a list of numbers - it's literally a key to understanding your gut that you've never had access to before.
When your results come back, we schedule a comprehensive follow-up appointment where I walk you through everything step by step. I explain not just what needs attention, but also what's already working well in your microbiome and digestive function. Many people are surprised to discover they have strengths they didn't know about alongside the imbalances causing symptoms.
Education is central to how I work. You'll leave that appointment understanding exactly what your results mean for your day-to-day life - why certain foods have been bothering you, why your energy has been low, why that bloating appears at specific times. More importantly, you'll understand how each finding connects to create your personalised protocol. The test results directly inform which herbs go into your formula, which dietary changes will help most, and what we're working toward in your recovery.
Do you actually need testing?
I recommend gut microbiome testing for most women and men with persistent digestive symptoms - but not everyone. Sometimes people come to me absolutely convinced they have Candida or SIBO because they've been researching symptoms online, but clinically I can tell something else is going on. In those cases, we might start with dietary changes and herbal support before investing in testing.
However, testing is particularly valuable when:
-
You've been dealing with bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or abdominal cramping for months or years without answers
-
Previous approaches (like the low FODMAP diet or cutting out dairy/gluten) provided only temporary relief
-
Your symptoms are complex - perhaps digestive issues combined with skin problems, fatigue, sugar cravings, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like endometriosis
-
You've been diagnosed with IBS but want to know what's actually causing your symptoms
-
You suspect Candida overgrowth and want confirmation before starting an antimicrobial protocol
-
Your bowel habits have changed and nothing seems to help
According to CSIRO research, at least 50% of Australian adults experience unpleasant gut symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation, and 1 in 7 experience distressing symptoms. Many people have undiagnosed digestive conditions that could benefit from thorough investigation.
Why comprehensive testing matters
Here's what I see frequently in clinical practice: someone comes in with terrible bloating after meals, alternating between constipation and diarrhoea, maybe some abdominal cramping. They've cut out gluten, dairy, FODMAPs - nothing provides lasting relief.
When we do the GI Map, we often discover it's not just one thing. Maybe there's:
-
Bacterial imbalance (dysbiosis) causing the bloating
-
Candida overgrowth contributing to the sugar cravings and constipation
-
Low levels of beneficial bacteria that should be protecting your gut
-
Markers showing intestinal permeability, which explains why you're reacting to more and more foods
-
Low stomach acid, which means you're not digesting protein properly
If we only addressed one piece of this puzzle, you'd still have symptoms. By seeing the complete picture, I can create a comprehensive approach that addresses everything at once.
This is where the real magic happens with herbal medicine. Once I see your complete results, I can mix a personalised herbal formula that targets:
-
The specific bacteria causing problems
-
Any fungal overgrowth like Candida
-
Inflammation and intestinal barrier support
-
Your digestive enzyme function
-
Your individual symptom picture (whether that's mainly constipation, mainly diarrhoea, or both)
This targeted, individualised approach is why many women and men experience significant improvement within weeks rather than months. We're not using generic protocols or guessing - we're working with precise information about YOUR gut.
What happens after testing?
Once I receive your GI Map results (usually within 3 weeks from when you send your sample), I'll interpret them and create your personalised protocol. This includes:
-
Dietary recommendations specific to what we've found (and equally importantly, which foods you DON'T need to avoid)
-
A bespoke herbal formula targeting your particular imbalances
-
Targeted probiotics if needed (not everyone needs them - sometimes they can make bloating worse)
-
Specific strategies for your main symptoms - whether that's supporting bowel regularity for constipation, or calming inflammation for diarrhoea
-
A timeline for re-testing to confirm we've achieved the changes we're aiming for
The Gastroenterological Society of Australia emphasises that understanding the gut microbiome is essential for managing chronic digestive conditions effectively. Targeted approaches based on actual test results are more effective than random interventions.
The difference between guessing and knowing
Many people spend years trying elimination diets, expensive probiotics from the chemist, and various supplements recommended by Dr Google. They might get some temporary relief, but symptoms keep coming back because they've never identified the actual cause.
Testing takes away the guesswork. Instead of wondering if you have Candida, you'll know for certain. Instead of cutting out random food groups, you'll understand which bacterial imbalances are actually causing your bloating. Instead of trying probiotic after probiotic, you'll know exactly which strains your gut actually needs.
For people dealing with daily bloating, unpredictable bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, or that exhausting cycle of constipation then diarrhoea - having answers is life-changing. Finally understanding what's been causing these symptoms means we can create a clear path forward.
Ready to understand what's really happening in your gut?
Book a consultation to discuss whether gut microbiome testing is right for you. Together we can create a clear path to comfortable, confident digestion - without the guesswork.
How long does SIBO take to go away?
Most women (and men) feel significant relief from SIBO symptoms within 6 weeks when working with a structured, phased approach. However, the complete process - including the restoration stage to prevent recurrence - typically takes 3-6 months.
"In my clinical practice, I work with a three-phase approach that I learned from Dr Nirala Jacobi. Phase I involves 3 weeks of targeted antimicrobial herbal medicine and supplements. Then we switch up the herbal formula for Phase II - another 3 weeks with different antimicrobials. If you're feeling 80-90% better at that point, we move into the restoration and repair stage, which focuses on rebuilding your gut function and addressing what caused the SIBO in the first place so it doesn't come back." — Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), SIBO Practitioner, Sydney Northern Beaches
Research shows that approximately 60-70% of people diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO. According to Dr Nirala Jacobi, founder of The SIBO Doctor and pioneer in SIBO protocols, successful management requires not just eradicating the bacterial overgrowth, but also addressing the underlying causes and supporting complete gut restoration.
Why the phased approach works
SIBO bacteria can be stubborn. By switching up the herbal antimicrobials between Phase I and Phase II, we prevent the bacteria from adapting to the same formula. This rotation strategy, combined with the biphasic diet developed by Dr Jacobi, gives us the best chance of clearing the overgrowth effectively.
The initial 6 weeks target the bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine. But here's what makes the difference between temporary relief and lasting results: we also need to work on your large bowel at the same time.
When I use the GI Map stool test alongside the SIBO breath test, I can see what's happening throughout your entire digestive system - not just your small intestine. This comprehensive view means I can create bespoke herbal formulas that address bacterial imbalances, fungal overgrowth like Candida, and markers of intestinal permeability (leaky gut) all at once.
This is why many of my clients experience fast results - we're supporting the whole gut holistically.
The restoration and repair stage
Once you're feeling 80-90% better (usually after the 6-week treatment), we move into Phase III. This stage can take another 3-6 months, but it's much gentler. The focus shifts to:
-
Rebuilding healthy gut bacteria diversity
-
Supporting your intestinal barrier function
-
Addressing what caused your SIBO in the first place
-
Making sure your digestive system can handle a wide variety of foods again
What caused your SIBO matters
SIBO doesn't just appear randomly. Common underlying causes include:
-
Chronic constipation (bacteria aren't being moved through properly)
-
Low stomach acid (your body's natural defence against bacterial overgrowth)
-
Stress affecting your migrating motor complex (the muscle contractions that sweep your gut clean)
-
Previous food poisoning or gastroenteritis
-
Regular snacking (which switches off the gut's natural cleansing waves)
-
Certain medications like antibiotics or acid-reducing drugs
If we don't identify and address YOUR specific trigger, SIBO is likely to return. This is why the restoration stage is so important - it's not just about maintaining results, it's about making lasting changes so you don't end up back at square one.
What you can expect during recovery
Most women notice bloating improving within the first 2-3 weeks. Energy levels often take a bit longer because SIBO causes malabsorption - your body needs time to rebuild nutrient stores once you can actually absorb food properly again.
Some women need two rounds of the 6-week protocol if their SIBO is particularly stubborn, or if there are complicating factors like SIFO (Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth). But the majority of women and men I work with feel dramatically better after one full round of Phases I and II.
According to the Gastroenterological Society of Australia, functional gut disorders like SIBO require a comprehensive approach that addresses diet, lifestyle factors, and the underlying gut environment - not just symptom suppression.
The important role of personalised herbal medicine
What makes herbal medicine so effective for SIBO is that I can create individualised formulas based on exactly what your GI Map and breath test reveal. If you have Candida overgrowth alongside SIBO, your formula will include both antibacterial AND antifungal herbs. If your test shows signs of intestinal permeability, we'll include gut barrier support. This targeted approach is why herbal protocols can be just as effective as antibiotics - sometimes more so - without the side effects of disrupting your beneficial gut bacteria.
The beauty of working with a SIBO-trained naturopath is that we understand this isn't a one-size-fits-all condition. Your timeline might be slightly different depending on how long you've had symptoms, what's showing up on your tests, and what caused your SIBO in the first place.
Ready to start your SIBO recovery journey? Book a consultation to discuss comprehensive testing and create your personalised protocol.
You don't have to live with bloating and digestive discomfort - let's work together to get you feeling well again.
Read more: Could your painful bloating be SIBO? A naturopath explains why.
How can a naturopath help with my IBS and bloating?
If you've been managing IBS symptoms for years, following a low FODMAP diet, and still dealing with bloating, you're not alone. Many women (and men) come to me after spending years restricting their diet, only to find their symptoms haven't really improved - or have even gotten worse. The frustration of not being able to eat normally, the social isolation of avoiding restaurants, and the exhaustion of managing symptoms every single day takes a real toll. Here's what you need to know: IBS is often not the full picture, and there's a very good chance you need to test for SIBO.
"I see so many clients who've been on a low FODMAP diet for 3, 4, even 5 years. Initially it helped, but over time their symptoms return or new issues emerge - their skin breaks out, they're more fatigued, they're reacting to even more foods. What's happening is that long-term restriction has impacted their gut microbiome diversity. The beneficial bacteria that should be protecting their gut have declined, and often there's an underlying condition like SIBO that was never diagnosed or addressed. The low FODMAP diet manages symptoms temporarily, but it doesn't treat the root cause." — Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), SIBO Practitioner, Sydney Northern Beaches
Research shows that approximately 60-80% of people diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth). According to Dr Nirala Jacobi, pioneer in SIBO protocols and founder of The SIBO Doctor, when SIBO is properly identified and addressed, IBS symptoms can be resolved - not just managed. This is why testing is so crucial, especially if you've been struggling for years without real answers.
When you need to test for SIBO
SIBO testing should be considered essential if you're experiencing:
-
Long-term constipation - When bacteria aren't being moved through properly, they can overgrow in the small intestine
-
Unexplained diarrhoea - Particularly if it happens shortly after eating and you've ruled out other causes
-
Frequent burping or belching - This is often a sign of bacterial fermentation happening too high up in your digestive tract
-
Predictable bloating after meals - If you can set your watch by the bloating that appears 30-60 minutes after eating, this is a classic SIBO pattern
Many people on the low FODMAP diet have been told to avoid wheat because they think they're gluten intolerant. But often, it's not the gluten at all - it's the fructans (a type of FODMAP) in wheat that cause symptoms. The Gastroenterological Society of Australia confirms that most people with IBS don't actually have a gluten allergy or intolerance. The real question is: why can't your gut handle these carbohydrates anymore? Often, the answer is bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
It's not just about your gut
What many people don't realise is that SIBO and poor gut microbiome health affect far more than just digestion. When I test someone with long-standing IBS, we often discover they're also dealing with:
-
Rosacea - There's a strong connection between SIBO and rosacea; studies show people with rosacea are significantly more likely to have SIBO
-
Acne - Poor gut microbiome diversity contributes to inflammatory skin conditions
-
Fatigue - SIBO causes malabsorption of nutrients, particularly B12 and iron, leaving you exhausted
-
Brain fog - The bacterial overgrowth produces toxins that affect cognitive function
-
Joint pain - Intestinal permeability (leaky gut) from SIBO allows inflammatory compounds into the bloodstream
-
Anxiety - The gut-brain axis means bacterial imbalances directly impact your mood and mental health
Suddenly, all these seemingly disconnected symptoms start making sense when you understand it's all part of your gut health picture.
How a naturopath approaches IBS differently
The fundamental difference between conventional IBS management and a naturopathic approach is this: we test, we don't guess.
Instead of simply managing symptoms with ongoing dietary restriction, I use comprehensive testing to understand exactly what's happening in your gut:
SIBO Breath Test: A 3-hour lactulose breath test that measures hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in your small intestine. This confirms whether SIBO is present and tells us which type you have.
GI Map Stool Test: This comprehensive DNA-based stool analysis shows us what's happening in your large bowel - bacterial diversity, fungal overgrowth like Candida, parasites, markers for intestinal permeability (leaky gut), and your digestive enzyme function.
By using both tests together, I can see your entire digestive ecosystem. This is crucial because if you only treat the SIBO in your small intestine but ignore imbalances in your large bowel, symptoms often persist or return.
Why the low FODMAP diet stops working
The low FODMAP diet was developed as a short-term diagnostic and therapeutic tool - typically 2-6 weeks in Phase 1, followed by careful reintroduction. It was never designed to be followed long-term. According to the Gastroenterological Society of Australia, "Studies have shown that lowering FODMAP intake (in Phase 1) leads to a drop in Bifidobacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of people with IBS."
Bifidobacteria are protective bacteria that keep your gut healthy. When you restrict FODMAPs for years, you're essentially starving these beneficial bacteria, which makes your gut microbiome less diverse and more vulnerable. This is why many people find that over time, the low FODMAP diet becomes less effective and they start reacting to even more foods.
The naturopathic treatment approach
Once we have your test results, I create a personalised protocol using Dr Nirala Jacobi's three-phase SIBO approach, combined with herbal antimicrobials tailored to your specific test findings:
Phase I (3 weeks): Targeted herbal antimicrobials and supplements specific to what we found on your tests, combined with dietary modifications
Phase II (3 weeks): Different herbal antimicrobials to prevent bacterial adaptation
Phase III (3-6 months): Restoration and repair - rebuilding your gut microbiome diversity, supporting your intestinal barrier, and addressing what caused your SIBO in the first place so it doesn't return
The goal is always food freedom. I want you to be able to eat normally again, go to restaurants without anxiety, and stop living in fear of your digestive system.
Herbal medicine vs antibiotics
One of the significant advantages of working with a naturopath is access to herbal antimicrobials. Research shows that herbal protocols can be just as effective as antibiotics for SIBO, often with fewer side effects. More importantly, I can create bespoke herbal formulas based on exactly what your GI Map reveals - targeting specific bacteria, addressing Candida if present, and including herbs that support your gut lining simultaneously.
Addressing the whole picture
According to CSIRO research, at least 50% of Australian adults experience unpleasant gut symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation. If you're one of them, and especially if you've been managing "IBS" for years without real improvement, it's time to investigate further.
A naturopathic approach doesn't just mask symptoms - it identifies the root cause through proper testing, addresses it with targeted natural medicines, rebuilds your gut health, and gives you the tools to prevent recurrence. You deserve to understand what's actually happening in your body and to have a clear path forward.
Ready to get answers instead of just managing symptoms?
Book a consultation to discuss comprehensive gut testing and create your personalised protocol. Let's work together to help you feel well again - and eat freely again.
What is SIBO and is it connected to my histamine intolerance?
If you've been dealing with histamine reactions - headaches, skin rashes, sinus issues, or flushing - and you've tried antihistamines, followed a low-histamine diet, maybe even cut out wine and aged cheese, but you're still struggling with symptoms, there's a very good chance your gut is the problem. Specifically, you might have SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), and it could be the root cause of your histamine intolerance that no one has investigated.
"I see so many women who've been managing histamine symptoms for years - they're taking antihistamines daily, they've restricted their diet to low-histamine foods, they're avoiding triggers - but they're not getting better. When we test, we often discover SIBO or other bacterial imbalances that are actually producing the histamine in the first place. You can take all the antihistamines in the world, but if you don't address the gut imbalances creating the histamine, you'll never fully resolve it." — Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), SIBO Practitioner, Sydney Northern Beaches
Research shows that certain gut bacteria can produce histamine as a metabolic byproduct. When these bacteria overgrow - whether in your small intestine (SIBO) or elsewhere in your digestive tract - they flood your system with histamine. Your body can't break it all down fast enough, and suddenly you're dealing with symptoms that seem to come out of nowhere.
What is SIBO?
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when bacteria that normally live in your large intestine migrate up into your small intestine, where there should be relatively few bacteria. These bacteria ferment the carbohydrates from your food, producing gases (hydrogen and methane) and other byproducts - including histamine.
The classic SIBO symptoms include:
-
Bloating 30-60 minutes after eating - This predictable timing is a hallmark sign
-
Excessive burping or belching - Fermentation happening too high up in your digestive tract
-
Trapped gas - Uncomfortable pressure and distension
-
Constipation, diarrhoea, or alternating between both
-
Abdominal pain or cramping
SIBO doesn't just cause digestive symptoms. According to Dr Nirala Jacobi, founder of The SIBO Doctor and pioneer in SIBO protocols, approximately 60-80% of people diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO. And many of these people also have histamine intolerance symptoms that they never connected to their gut.
Histamine symptoms you might not realise are coming from your gut
When I test someone for SIBO and other gut imbalances, they're often surprised to discover that symptoms they thought were completely unrelated are actually all connected to their gut health:
-
Headaches and migraines - Particularly after eating certain foods or at predictable times
-
Skin issues - Hives, rashes, itching, flushing, or rosacea (there's a strong connection between SIBO and rosacea)
-
Sinus congestion or runny nose - Not from seasonal allergies, but from histamine
-
Brain fog and drowsiness - That exhausted, can't-think-clearly feeling that makes you need afternoon naps
-
Anxiety - The gut-brain axis means bacterial imbalances directly affect your mood
-
Bloating - This is both a digestive symptom AND a histamine symptom
-
Worsening symptoms after eating high-histamine foods - Wine, aged cheese, fermented foods, leftovers, tomatoes, avocado
Research shows that bloating appears in over 90% of histamine intolerance cases. If you're experiencing bloating along with any of these other symptoms, it's essential to investigate your gut.
The bacteria producing histamine
Not all gut bacteria produce histamine, but certain species are major contributors. When these bacteria overgrow, they can flood your system with more histamine than your body can handle. Some of the significant histamine-producing bacteria include:
Klebsiella species - A common overgrowth found on comprehensive stool testing. Klebsiella produces histamine and is also associated with inflammatory conditions.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) - This bacteria lowers your stomach acid production. When stomach acid is low, your gut releases more histamine to try to signal your stomach to produce more acid. It's a vicious cycle - H. pylori causes low stomach acid, which triggers more histamine production, which worsens your histamine symptoms.
Candida overgrowth (SIFO - Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth) - Candida doesn't just cause digestive symptoms. It contributes to histamine issues and is a major cause of low energy, sugar cravings, brain fog, and thrush. Many people with SIBO also have Candida overgrowth, and if you only address the SIBO without treating the Candida, symptoms persist. You can read more about this in my blog: Holistic treatment of Candida.
These are some of the major contributors, but they're not the only bacteria that can produce histamine or contribute to histamine intolerance. This is why comprehensive testing is so important - you need to see the complete picture of what's happening in your gut.
Why treating histamine symptoms alone doesn't work
If you're only taking antihistamines or following a low-histamine diet, you're treating the symptom, not the cause. You might get some temporary relief, but the bacterial overgrowth in your gut is still there, continuously producing histamine.
It's like mopping up water from a leaking pipe without fixing the pipe. You can mop all day, but the water keeps coming. Similarly, you can take antihistamines and restrict your diet, but if the bacteria in your gut are producing histamine 24/7, you'll never fully resolve your symptoms.
This is why so many people feel frustrated - they've done everything "right" according to the low-histamine diet, they've avoided triggers, they're taking supplements, but they're still suffering. No one has investigated what's actually causing the histamine production in the first place.
How we test for the root cause
To properly understand what's driving your histamine intolerance, you need comprehensive testing - not just guesswork:
SIBO Breath Test: A 3-hour lactulose breath test that measures hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in your small intestine. This confirms whether you have SIBO and tells us which type.
GI Map Stool Test: This is crucial. The GI Map is a comprehensive DNA-based stool analysis that shows us:
-
Bacterial overgrowths including Klebsiella and other histamine-producing bacteria
-
H. pylori infection (and whether it's producing virulence factors that make it more problematic)
-
Candida and other fungal overgrowths (SIFO)
-
Your overall bacterial diversity and balance
-
Markers for intestinal permeability (leaky gut)
-
How well you're producing digestive enzymes
-
How well you're detoxifying estrogen - which is particularly important for the estrogen-histamine connection
By using both tests together, we can see your entire digestive ecosystem and identify all the contributors to your histamine issues - not just SIBO.
The estrogen-histamine connection
There's another crucial piece to this puzzle that affects many women: the relationship between estrogen and histamine.
Estrogen can amplify histamine levels, and histamine can increase estrogen. They create a cycle that can worsen during:
-
Perimenopause - When estrogen fluctuates wildly, histamine symptoms often worsen
-
Ovulation - Many women notice their histamine symptoms spike mid-cycle when estrogen peaks
-
Pregnancy - Rising estrogen levels can trigger or worsen histamine reactions
-
HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) - Adding estrogen can sometimes unmask or worsen histamine intolerance
The GI Map can show us how well your gut bacteria are metabolising and detoxifying estrogen. If you have bacterial imbalances (something called estrobolome dysfunction), you may not be breaking down estrogen properly, which contributes to both hormonal symptoms AND histamine issues. This is particularly important for women in perimenopause or on HRT who are struggling with histamine reactions.
You can read more about histamine intolerance and its connection to gut health on my histamine intolerance page.
Targeted herbal medicine based on your test results
One of the significant advantages of comprehensive testing is that it allows me to create bespoke herbal formulas specifically targeted to what we find in YOUR gut. Rather than using generic protocols or guessing which herbs might help, I can mix personalised herbal medicines that address:
-
The specific bacteria causing problems - Different antimicrobial herbs target different species. If your GI Map shows Klebsiella overgrowth, I'll include herbs that are particularly effective against Klebsiella. If you have H. pylori, I'll use herbs known to address this specific infection.
-
Fungal overgrowth like Candida - Antifungal herbs are included if SIFO is present
-
Histamine support - Herbs that help stabilise mast cells and support your body's ability to break down histamine
-
Inflammation and gut barrier support - To heal leaky gut and reduce the inflammatory response that worsens histamine symptoms
-
Your individual symptom picture - Whether you're dealing with mainly constipation, mainly diarrhoea, or both; whether you have significant anxiety or brain fog; whether skin symptoms are predominant
This targeted, personalised approach is why many women experience significant improvement within weeks rather than months. We're not using a one-size-fits-all protocol - we're working with precise information about your unique gut ecosystem and creating herbal medicine tailored specifically to you.
The naturopathic approach to SIBO and histamine intolerance
Once we have your test results, I create a personalised protocol that addresses:
-
The bacterial or fungal overgrowths - Using targeted herbal antimicrobials specific to what we found on your tests
-
Supporting histamine breakdown - While we address the root cause
-
Reducing inflammation - To calm your immune system and mast cell activation
-
Restoring your gut barrier - To prevent leaky gut and support a healthy digestive mucosal layer. Research published in Nutrients journal (2021) confirms that maintaining the integrity of the digestive system and supporting healthy mucosal barriers is essential for managing histamine intolerance
-
Rebuilding beneficial bacteria - To create a healthy, diverse microbiome that doesn't overproduce histamine
-
Supporting estrogen metabolism - If this is contributing to your symptoms
The goal isn't just to manage your histamine symptoms - it's to resolve the underlying gut imbalances that are causing them.
When we address SIBO, H. pylori, Candida, and other bacterial imbalances, many women find their histamine symptoms dramatically improve or resolve completely.
Ready to investigate the real cause of your histamine symptoms?
Book a consultation to discuss comprehensive gut testing. Let's find out what's actually happening in your gut and create a clear path to feeling well again - without having to live on antihistamines or a restrictive diet forever.
Common questions about working with a naturopath
Question: Naturopath for women's health Northern Beaches
If you're searching for a naturopath with a holistic approach to women's health on Sydney's Northern Beaches, you've found the right place. I'm Simone Jeffries, a naturopath with a particular focus on the interconnected systems that govern women's health - hormones, gut microbiome, stress responses, and vaginal microbiome.
Why women's health requires a holistic approach
Women's bodies go through distinct life stages and hormonal transitions that require understanding beyond general naturopathic care. From painful periods and recurrent infections in reproductive years, through the challenging transition of perimenopause, to maintaining vitality after menopause - each stage asks something different of our bodies.
"I'm passionate about women's health because I believe when women understand how their bodies work - the intricate dance between hormones, gut health, and busy lifestyles - they become empowered to make informed decisions about their own wellbeing. I love working in this area because every woman's body tells a unique story, and my role is to help her read that story and respond with compassion and knowledge. I'm a strong advocate for food as medicine, and I love showing women how the right foods at the right times can transform their energy, moods, and symptoms. These moments of understanding and relief are why I do this work." — Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), Sydney Northern Beaches
My areas of special focus
I work with women experiencing:
-
Menstrual health concerns - period pain, heavy bleeding, PMS, endometriosis
-
Recurrent infections - thrush, urinary tract infections (including post-menopause), bacterial vaginosis
-
Perimenopause - irregular periods, heavy bleeding, mood changes, hot flushes, anxiety, sleep issues, brain fog
-
Post-menopausal health - vaginal dryness, painful sex, recurrent UTIs, bone health, sustained energy
-
Digestive issues - bloating, SIBO, histamine intolerance, food intolerances
-
Hormonal imbalances - PCOS, irregular cycles, low libido
What makes my practice unique
Vaginal Microbiome Expertise I'm trained in vaginal microbiome analysis and work two days per week at My Vagina clinic, focusing on recurrent vaginal and urinary concerns. This dedicated clinical experience means I understand the nuances of vaginal health in ways that inform all aspects of my women's health practice.
Advanced Testing When Needed I'm trained in functional testing including GI mapping (comprehensive gut microbiome analysis), vaginal microbiome analysis, and SIBO breath testing. For approximately 30% of my clients with complex or long-term digestive and hormonal conditions, this testing provides crucial insights that guide individualised care.
Bespoke Herbal Medicine I create individualised herbal blends based on your specific health picture and, when relevant, your test results. If GI mapping or vaginal microbiome testing reveals particular bacterial imbalances, I know which herbs target those specific organisms. This precision approach means faster, more effective results.
Holistic, Sustainable Approach I integrate wellness coaching into my practice because good advice needs to be matched with support, encouragement, and realistic goal-setting. My focus is on sustainable change - helping you make shifts that work with your life, not against it.
Working With Nature's Rhythms I love supporting women to work with natural cycles - whether that's your menstrual cycle, the lunar cycle (for women who no longer menstruate), or the changing seasons. These rhythms offer a structure for building healthy habits that last.
My THRIVE Program
For women aged 42-55 navigating perimenopause, I've developed an 8-week online program called THRIVE. This comprehensive course helps you understand what's happening in your body and provides practical strategies for managing this transition with confidence and ease. You can download the program guide here.
Jean Hailes for Women's Health recommends seeking advice from qualified and experienced naturopaths for herbal and complementary therapies, and acknowledges that complementary medicine and therapies are used to support holistic wellbeing and quality of life.
Location & How to Work With Me
While my practice is based in Manly on Sydney's Northern Beaches, telehealth makes it possible for women to work with me from anywhere in Australia. I currently see clients from Perth, Adelaide, Darwin, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, and across Sydney (including the Lower North Shore and Mosman areas).
I offer both in-person consultations (Northern Beaches) and telehealth appointments, making it easier to fit appointments into your busy life wherever you are.
What to expect
Your first appointment is 60 minutes. We'll discuss your health history, current concerns, and health goals in detail. I'll explore your diet, stress levels, sleep patterns, menstrual cycle (if relevant), digestive health, and how these all connect.
When appropriate, I may recommend functional testing such as GI mapping, vaginal microbiome analysis, or SIBO breath tests. However, I only suggest testing when I believe it will genuinely illuminate your specific health picture - it's never just routine.
You'll leave your first appointment with initial recommendations and a clear understanding of the path forward. Most women notice improvement within 1to 8 weeks), with continued improvement over three to six months as we address underlying causes.
Why choose a naturopath with a women's health focus?
Working with a naturopath who focuses specifically on the female body's unique systems means:
-
Deeper understanding of hormonal cycles and transitions
-
Familiarity with the latest research on women's microbiomes (gut and vaginal)
-
Experience with complex conditions like endometriosis and SIBO
-
Knowledge of how stress, sleep, and nutrition affect women's hormones
-
Understanding of the perimenopause to menopause transition
-
Dedicated training in vaginal microbiome health
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're experiencing women's health concerns and want a naturopath who understands the whole picture - not just isolated symptoms - I'd love to help!
Contact Details: Simone Jeffries Naturopath
Sydney Northern Beaches (in-person) | Telehealth Australia-wide
Common questions about perimenopause and naturopathy
Question: Can a naturopath help with perimenopause without HRT?
Answer: Absolutely!As a naturopath focusing on women's health on Sydney's Northern Beaches, I work with perimenopausal women every day using natural approaches - and the results can be truly transformative.
Natural support for perimenopause includes personalised herbal medicine, nutritional strategies, working with your body's natural rhythms, and wellness coaching to help you implement sustainable changes. Many women find significant relief from symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, insomnia, and heavy bleeding without needing HRT.
That said, this isn't either/or. Some women benefit from combining natural approaches with HRT, and I work collaboratively with GPs to support whatever choice is right for you. The key is understanding YOUR unique hormonal picture and creating a plan that addresses the root causes of your symptoms.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to a Natural Perimenopause.
Question: Why am I so angry and emotional in perimenopause?
Answer: You're not imagining it, and you're definitely not alone. The rage, irritability, and mood swings many women experience in perimenopause are real and have a physiological cause.
During perimenopause, your estrogen fluctuates wildly and progesterone levels drop. These hormonal swings directly affect your neurotransmitters (brain chemicals like serotonin and GABA) that regulate mood, stress response, and emotional resilience. What used to roll off your back now feels overwhelming. Simple tasks that you've done a thousand times before suddenly feel impossible.
This is compounded by poor sleep, blood sugar imbalances, and increased cortisol (stress hormones). Your nervous system is essentially on high alert, and your emotional buffer has disappeared.
Herbal medicine can support your nervous system, nutritional changes can stabilise blood sugar and hormones, and working with your body's natural rhythms can help you navigate this transition with more ease. Flower essences can also provide beautiful support for the emotional aspects of this time.
Read more about this: Perimenopause rage: why you're suddenly losing your temper
Question: Why do I wake up at 3am every night and can't get back to sleep?
Answer:This is one of the most frustrating symptoms of perimenopause, and there's a clear reason why it happens at that specific time.
During perimenopause, declining progesterone affects your ability to stay asleep, while fluctuating oestrogen disrupts your sleep-wake cycle. But the 3am wake-up is often related to your cortisol rhythm. Cortisol (your stress hormone) should be at its lowest around 3-4am, but when your adrenal glands are working overtime to compensate for declining ovarian hormones, cortisol can spike at the wrong time - jolting you awake.
This is compounded by night sweats, anxiety, and a nervous system that's already on edge from hormonal fluctuations. Your body's circadian rhythm - the natural day-night cycle - becomes disrupted, making it hard to settle back to sleep once you're awake.
Supporting your circadian rhythm is fundamental to how I work with perimenopausal women. This includes herbal medicine to calm your nervous system, nutritional support for hormone and blood sugar balance, and practical strategies for working with your body's natural sleep-wake patterns.
Read more: Female over 40, and wide awake at 2am?
Common questions about period pain and endometriosis
Why is my endometriosis worse in my 40s?
Endometriosis in your 40s behaves differently than it did in your 20s and 30s, and understanding why comes down to one key hormone shift: the fluctuating estrogen levels that characterise early perimenopause.
The Perimenopause-Endometriosis Connection
As you enter your 40s, progesterone levels begin to decline while estrogen levels swing unpredictably high and low. This hormonal imbalance creates the perfect storm for endometriosis to flare with renewed intensity.
Research published in Diseases (MDPI) in March 2019 examined 1,100 women with confirmed endometriosis across two countries. The study found that advanced endometriosis (stage III-IV) was significantly more aggressive in perimenopausal women (ages 45-54) compared to postmenopausal women.
"When women with endometriosis come to see me in their 40s with worsening symptoms, I explain that the increased estrogen is driving the endometriosis and pain. But the underlying driver is often the immune system reacting to bacteria in the gut or vagina. That's why we do comprehensive testing - GI-MAP, SIBO testing, vaginal microbiome analysis, and look for things like histamine intolerance, Gilbert syndrome, liver function, and environmental xenoestrogens. We need to find YOUR specific drivers." — Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), Sydney Northern Beaches
Why Early Perimenopause Fuels Endometriosis
Naturopathic doctor and hormone expert Lara Briden explains in her book Hormone Repair Manual that early perimenopause is characterised by dropping progesterone levels, which leads to symptoms including "worse endometriosis" alongside heavy periods, clots, and migraines. Without sufficient progesterone to balance estrogen, endometrial-like tissue receives stronger signals to proliferate and become inflamed.
The estrogen dominance of early perimenopause triggers:
Increased inflammation: Higher estrogen promotes inflammatory pathways, making endometriosis lesions more reactive and painful.
Immune system activation: Your immune system responds to bacterial imbalances in your gut and vagina, driving inflammation that fuels endometriosis symptoms.
The Immune System-Bacteria-Hormone Connection
The underlying driver of worsening endometriosis is often your immune system reacting to bacteria in your gut and vagina. When you have dysbiosis (bacterial imbalance), your immune system becomes hypervigilant, triggering inflammation that makes endometriosis more painful.
Your gut bacteria produce an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase, which can "unlock" estrogen that your liver packaged for elimination, sending it back into circulation.
Women with endometriosis often have altered gut microbiomes that worsen estrogen dominance and inflammation.
Research shows that women with stage III-IV endometriosis have distinct vaginal microbiota patterns, with lower protective Lactobacillus and higher inflammatory bacteria. When your immune system detects these imbalances, it responds with inflammation that fuels endometriosis.
The Histamine-Estrogen Cycle:
Histamine and estrogen have a bidirectional relationship - histamine drives estrogen production, and estrogen increases histamine release. Gut dysbiosis produces excess histamine, which drives more estrogen, creating a vicious cycle.
GI-MAP testing and SIBO testing can identify specific bacterial imbalances and histamine-producing bacteria, while vaginal microbiome testing reveals inflammatory patterns.
Finding Your Underlying Estrogen Drivers
Beyond gut and vaginal bacteria, there are other important drivers of excess estrogen that need investigation:
Gilbert syndrome: A genetic condition affecting liver function and estrogen clearance
Liver function: How efficiently your liver processes and eliminates estrogen
Environmental xenoestrogens: Estrogen-mimicking chemicals in plastics, personal care products, and pesticides that add to your total estrogen load.
What This Means for Your Management
Understanding that your worsening endometriosis is driven by immune reactions to bacterial imbalances changes how you approach management. The Australasian Menopause Society acknowledges that perimenopausal women with endometriosis face unique challenges.
Effective management requires a detective-style approach:
Comprehensive testing: GI-MAP and SIBO testing for gut bacteria and histamine; vaginal microbiome testing; liver function and Gilbert syndrome screening; xenoestrogen exposure evaluation.
Targeted treatment: Bespoke herbal formulas tailored to your specific test results, supporting progesterone, estrogen clearance, bacterial balance, and histamine management.
Moving Forward with THRIVE
If you're experiencing worsening endometriosis in your 40s, you're likely in the early stages of perimenopause - the perfect time to gain a deeper understanding of what's happening in your body. The THRIVE program provides comprehensive education about perimenopause hormone changes and practical strategies to support your body through this transition.
However, because endometriosis requires specific management beyond general perimenopause support, individualised consultations focusing on your endometriosis alongside perimenopause education give you the most complete approach to feeling better.
Ready to understand your perimenopause and endometriosis connection?
Practising in Sydney Northern Beaches and online across Australia
Question: What can a naturopath do for period pain?
Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that affects your ability to work, study, or enjoy life. While many women are told this is "normal" or that the only option is pain medication, naturopathy offers a different approach - one that looks at the underlying causes rather than just managing symptoms.
Understanding the Root Causes of period pain: Period pain isn't just about your menstrual cycle. Research is increasingly showing connections between menstrual health, gut health, and even vaginal microbiome balance - particularly in conditions like endometriosis.
"When I see a woman with severe period pain, I'm looking at three interconnected systems: her hormonal balance, her gut microbiome, and her vaginal microbiome. These three systems communicate with each other, and inflammation in one area can affect the others. This is particularly important with endometriosis, where we now understand the gut and vaginal microbiomes play significant roles. By addressing all three systems with targeted herbal medicine and gut microbiome testing when needed, I can help women experience real relief - not just symptom management." — Simone Jeffries, Naturopath (BHSc), Sydney Northern Beaches
Research published in 2023 in the journal Pharmaceuticals found that the average delay in diagnosing endometriosis, due to the nonspecific nature of its symptoms, is significant, ranging from 4 to 12 years, and laparoscopic diagnosis, the diagnostic gold standard, is an invasive procedure.
Jean Hailes for Women's Health recognises that period pain can significantly impact quality of life and recommends investigating underlying causes, particularly when pain is severe or worsening over time.
How Naturopathy Addresses Period Pain. As a naturopath, I use several approaches depending on what's driving your pain:
1. Herbal Medicine I create individualised herbal formulas that may include anti-inflammatory herbs, hormone-balancing herbs, and herbs that support healthy prostaglandin production (the compounds that influence period pain). Unlike over-the-counter remedies, these formulas are specific to your symptoms and health picture.
2. Gut Microbiome Testing and Support For women with suspected endometriosis or severe period pain, I often recommend GI mapping - a comprehensive stool test that shows exactly what's happening in your gut microbiome. When we identify specific bacterial imbalances or inflammation markers, I can prescribe targeted herbal medicines that address your unique gut issues. This matters because gut inflammation can worsen period pain, and the gut microbiome influences oestrogen metabolism.
3. Vaginal Microbiome Support The health of your vaginal microbiome is increasingly recognised as important for menstrual and pelvic health. I work with you to optimise this through dietary changes, specific probiotics when needed, and herbal support.
4. Anti-inflammatory Nutrition Certain foods can increase or decrease period pain. I'll guide you towards an anti-inflammatory eating pattern that supports all three systems - hormonal, gut, and vaginal health.
5. Lifestyle and Stress Management Stress affects hormone production and gut health. I'll help you develop sustainable practices that support your body through your menstrual cycle.
Naturopathic doctor and hormone expert Lara Briden notes in her research that many cases of period pain involve underlying inflammation that can be addressed through natural approaches targeting prostaglandin balance and immune function.
What to Expect
Most women notice some improvement within one to two menstrual cycles, with continued improvement over three to six months as we address the underlying causes. This is particularly true when we identify and support gut microbiome imbalances.
When to Seek Help
You should see a naturopath for period pain if:
-
Pain medication isn't providing adequate relief
-
Your pain is getting worse over time
-
You're missing work or social activities due to period pain
-
You suspect endometriosis or have been diagnosed with it
-
You want to understand and address the root causes, not just mask symptoms
Period pain doesn't have to be something you just "put up with." By looking at the whole picture - your hormones, gut health, and vaginal microbiome - naturopathy offers a pathway to lasting relief.
Contact Simone Jeffries Naturopath Located on Sydney's Northern Beaches, I focus solely on women's health with particular expertise in the gut-hormone-vaginal health connection.
Book a consultation to discuss your period pain and how we can work together to address the underlying causes.
Blogs about naturopathy and period pain:
Read more: A naturopath's update on period pain and endometriosis