Diagnosing SIBO: Breath Tests, Symptoms, and What to Expect

SIBO can be tricky to diagnose, but a breath test can give you clear answers about what’s happening in your gut. The SIBO Breath test has been confirmed as the most accurate way to assess for SIBO.

This post will guide you through how SIBO is diagnosed and what you need to know before taking the test. If you are wondering what is SIBO. Then read this post!

1. What is a Breath Test for SIBO?

The SIBO breath test measures hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in the small intestine. You’ll drink a solution of lactulose, and as the bacteria ferment the sugars, gases are released and measured through your breath​.

2. What Can SIBO Testing Reveal?

The test identifies whether you have hydrogen-dominant SIBO, methane-dominant SIBO, or both. This is crucial for creating a personalised treatment plan​. It also gives your practitioner an idea of how significant the overgrowth is, large overgrowth takes longer to treat than smaller overgrowths.

3. What to Expect from a Breath Test:

Before the test, you’ll need to complete a prep diet for a day, and then fast for 12 hours overnight. Upon waking you drink the sugar solution, you’ll provide breath samples at 20 minute intervals over 3 hours.

4. Interpreting the Results:

If the test shows elevated levels of hydrogen or methane, this confirms SIBO. From here, you can work with your practitioner to design a treatment plan tailored to your SIBO type.

SIBO testing is an essential step in understanding your gut health and finding the right treatment path. If you suspect you have SIBO, talk to your healthcare provider about testing options.

If you are ready to stop guessing and truly understand what is at the heart of your gut issue, then jump into my gut reset package.

Much Love,

Megan