SIBO Breath Test

What SIBO is

The small intestine normally hosts few bacteria. In SIBO, they multiply excessively and ferment food too early, producing gases that cause abdominal bloating, flatulence, pain, diarrhea or constipation.

The condition may be associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, prolonged use of antacids, changes in intestinal motility and abdominal surgery, and it can impair the absorption of nutrients such as vitamin B12 and iron.

How the test is done

After fasting, the patient blows into collection tubes for a baseline sample. Then they drink a lactulose or glucose solution, and new samples of exhaled air are collected at regular intervals for about two to three hours.

An increase in hydrogen indicates bacterial fermentation in the small intestine. An increase in methane, on the other hand, is more associated with constipation.

Preparation

• Preparation diet restricting fermentable foods the day before
• Fasting for 8 to 12 hours before the test
• Prior suspension of antibiotics, probiotics and laxatives, as instructed
• No smoking or intense exercise on the day of the test

How we use the result

The result guides the treatment, carried out together with the physician when antimicrobials are indicated, and the nutrition strategy: a temporary reduction of fermentable carbohydrates (as in the low-FODMAP diet), care for intestinal motility and, afterwards, microbiome modulation to reduce the risk of relapse.