SIBO Breath Test / SIBO Test

Find all our SIBO Breath Tests (also called SIBO Tests, SIBO At-Home Tests or SIBO Hydrogen Tests here!

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) is a condition that can cause digestive problems. Approximately 10-15% of the world's population suffers from IBS and in approximately 70-80% of cases, SIBO is the cause. Our SIBO Breath Test is a non-invasive diagnostic method for this condition. The At-home test measures the concentration of hydrogen and methane gases in the breath, which are produced when bacteria in the small intestine ferment carbohydrates.

Elevated levels of these gases may indicate the presence of SIBO. The test is critical for early detection and treatment of SIBO to prevent further complications such as malnutrition. The SIBO Breath Test can be done at home, saving both time and money.

Questions regarding SIBO Breath Tests? We have answers!

What is a SIBO Breath Test and How Does It Work?

The SIBO Breath Test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). Your breath is collected (at specific time intervals) in glass tubes and collected in specialized laboratories.
The SIBO Test test can be performed conveniently at home. You will receive the results conveniently digitally. Elevated levels may indicate SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).

How Do I Prepare for a SIBO Breath Test?

To prepare for a SIBO Test, follow these steps:

  1. Stop taking antibiotics, probiotics, and herbal supplements two weeks before the test.
  2. Avoid hard exercise 12 hours before the test.
  3. Don't eat or drink anything except water on test day.
  4. No smoking or nicotine 12 hours before the test.
  5. No alcohol 24 hours before the test.
  6. Fast for 12 hours before the test.

Following these guidelines helps ensure accurate test results for the SIBO Breath Test.

How Long Does It Take to Get the Results of a SIBO Breath Test?

SIBO Test results are typically available within a week. However, the timeframe may vary depending on shipment from and to the lab and on the lab processing the test.

Can I Take the Test at Home?

Yes! The SIBO Breath Test is a simple at-home test. You'll receive a test kit from us, follow the instructions, and send it back to our trusted lab for analysis. We'll provide all reesults digital.

How will I get my results? By mail?

Your SIBO Test results will be available to you via our customer login (which we do via PracticeBetter, a secure platform for personal health information).

Lisa G. (from Portland, OR)

"I'm so happy that I've this SIBO breath test! Years of gut issues willl hopefully end soon. Now I know what to do - 5 stars! Thanks!"

Do you have more questions about our SIBO Breath Tests? We'd be happy to answer them all!

SIBO Breath Tests: Diagnosis, At-Home Kits & Benefits

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) is when there are unusually high levels of bacteria in the small intestine. This overpopulation interferes with normal digestion, leading to a variety of uncomfortable abdominal symptoms such as bloating, constipation or diarrhoea.

If a person is experiencing these symptoms, this guide provides comprehensive information about SIBO, including accurate diagnosis using breath tests and convenient at-home test kits.

Understanding Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) is a condition that occurs when bacteria in the small intestine become too numerous and interfere with normal digestion and absorption. When this overgrowth occurs, digestion and absorption are disrupted, leading to symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Typically, SIBO patients suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. It is important to identify SIBO as the cause of these symptoms for effective treatment and relief. Breath tests to correctly diagnose SIBO lead to targeted therapy that helps relieve symptoms and restore normal bowel function.

What are SIBO breath tests?

SIBO breath tests are non-invasive diagnostic procedures that detect hydrogen and methane gases in exhaled breath produced by bacteria in the small intestine.

The test involves an individual taking a specific amount of sugar solution and then providing breath samples on a regular basis. If the levels of methane or hydrogen in these samples are high over time, it means you have SIBO.

The convenience and non-invasiveness of SIBO breath tests make them very useful in diagnosing this condition. They provide reliable results, allowing for targeted treatment plans that can significantly reduce symptoms and improve overall gut health.

SIBO breath tests at home

The development of breath test kits has been seen as an excellent step towards easy diagnosis of SIBO. These kits have been shown to be as reliable and accurate as clinical tests, allowing for proper diagnosis.

There is a complete SIBO Home test kit that includes all the necessary equipment, full instructions and pre-paid return labels for the samples. This kind of comprehensive approach allows patients to perform the test in the comfort of their own home, making it available to those who are unable to travel or prefer to test at home.

The benefit of home SIBO breath testing is that more people can be diagnosed and begin treatment immediately, without having to make multiple visits to the doctor. This accessibility is particularly valuable for people with mobility issues or busy lifestyles, as they can receive prompt diagnosis and treatment for symptoms suggestive of SIBO.

Benefits of SIBO Breath Tests

There are several benefits of SIBO breath tests for people who have gut health problems, such as:

  • Accuracy of SIBO diagnosis: It is often misinterpreted as IBS, however these tests help to pinpoint SIBO specifically.
  • Differentiation between hydrogen and methane: These tests therefore help to differentiate between the hydrogen and methane dominant type of SIBO, making treatment more targeted and effective.
  • Painless and non-invasive: Due to their non-invasive nature, SIBO breath tests are painless to administer, making them accessible to a wider range of patients.
  • Timely and accurate diagnosis: Early detection through breath testing can significantly improve symptoms and overall quality of life, allowing for appropriate treatment interventions.

These advantages highlight the role played by SIBO breath tests in managing gut health conditions effectively to ensure improved patient outcomes.

The importance of testing and retesting

Early testing for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) plays a crucial role in diagnosing the condition and determining effective therapy. However, follow-up testing is also necessary to monitor progress and assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Regular testing allows adjustments to be made so that either the bacterial overgrowth has been adequately treated or further treatment can be given. Regular retesting identifies ongoing or new bacterial infections in patients who continue to have symptoms, providing an opportunity for timely intervention and adjustment of plans.

Such ongoing monitoring helps to manage symptoms, prevent recurrence and maintain long-term gut health. To achieve optimal gut health management, it is therefore important that there is consistent testing and re-testing for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Conclusion SIBO Breath tests

Ultimately, SIBO breath tests have a significant impact on the diagnosis and management of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). These tests offer a reliable, non-invasive method for individuals suffering from chronic gastrointestinal problems such as IBS, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, etc.

If you have unresolved gut health issues, talk to a healthcare professional about why you should consider SIBO breath test kits or home testing options, which may offer greater convenience than other types of testing.