Symptoms during detox/die-off
Symptoms during detox/die-off

Medically reviewed by:

Dr John Freeman

Detox symptoms — why do they happen?

When treating gut overgrowth using natural antimicrobials (such as those included in the FixBIOME Gut Reset Course) or prescription antibiotics, it’s common for some people to experience temporary “detox” or die-off symptoms.


Not everyone will experience this response. Some people notice no change at all, while others may feel short-term discomfort. Although unpleasant, these symptoms can indicate that unwanted bacteria are being broken down and cleared from the body.

Why does detoxing happen?

Detox symptoms occur because of your immune system’s response, not because the treatment itself is harming you.


When bacteria die, they break apart and release substances called lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Your immune system recognizes these as a threat and releases cytokines, which are inflammatory signaling molecules. This temporary inflammatory response can create flu-like or systemic symptoms.


In many cases, how we feel during illness or treatment is caused more by the immune response than by the bacteria themselves. Unfortunately, this can mean feeling worse before you start to feel better.

Common detox / die-off symptoms

People may experience one or more of the following:

  • Nausea

  • Fatigue or exhaustion

  • Anxiety or low mood

  • Flu-like symptoms

  • Brain fog

  • Changes in bowel movements

  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating


These symptoms are usually temporary and tend to ease as bacterial load decreases and inflammation settles.

Tips for coping during detox

Everyone’s response is different, but the following strategies may help reduce discomfort:


  • Don’t be alarmed if symptoms get worse, this can be a good sign

  • Having anxiety is normal, and it will pass since your body is going through a lot to make you better right now

  • Take it easy, if you are exhausted

  • Sip peppermint tea or put some drops of peppermint oil in your water. This has been proven to reduce nausea and stomach upset

  • Igg antibodies or Immunoglobulins help to bind bacterial toxins as they’re released, and they help to reduce inflammation in the small intestine

  • Use Methyl b complex to calm the inflammatory reaction that occurs


Always follow practitioner guidance when using supplements alongside antimicrobial protocols.

Does detox happen to everyone?

No. Most people do not experience noticeable detox symptoms. We simply educate patients about the possibility so they are not caught off guard if it does occur.

Is the product going to do anything for me if I don’t experience detox?

Yes, detoxing is not experienced by everyone, it’s experienced by the minority of people. The majority of customers do not experience detoxing and still see great results.

Can detox symptoms come and go?

Yes. Die-off symptoms can flare and settle throughout treatment, though they are most commonly experienced in the early stages of antimicrobial therapy.

How long does detox last?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Duration varies depending on:

  • Individual microbiome makeup

  • Type and amount of bacterial overgrowth

  • Immune system sensitivity

  • Detoxification capacity

For most people, symptoms are short-lived and improve as treatment progresses.


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