Healing IBS and Gut Infections Naturally with Dr. Izabella Wentz

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is not a one-size-fits-all condition — and the standard medical approach of treating symptoms with medication or generic diets often fails because it ignores the root causes. Dr. Isabella Wentz, a New York Times bestselling author and functional pharmacist, reveals in her new book, *IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause*, that up to 98% of IBS cases have identifiable, treatable triggers — from hidden infections like *Blastocystis hominis* and *H. pylori* to nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, and gut dysbiosis. Drawing from her own journey with IBS and Hashimoto’s, she shares how eliminating gluten and dairy helped her, but only after addressing deeper infections did she achieve lasting remission. The episode dismantles the myth that fiber is universally beneficial, showing that for some, high fiber worsens symptoms due to SIBO or oxalate issues. Instead, she advocates for personalized protocols: targeted supplements like thiamine (benfothiamine) for constipation and low stomach acid, high-dose *Saccharomyces boulardii* for diarrhea, and lifestyle tools like ileocecal valve massage and posture-based bowel movements. The real breakthrough? Healing isn’t about restriction — it’s about restoring balance through science-backed, individualized strategies that go far beyond the standard 'eat more fiber' advice. Key takeaways include the critical role of stomach acid in preventing infections, the hidden impact of oral health on *H.