A SIBO breath test is a non-invasive diagnostic test used to detect small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). This condition occurs when there is an abnormal increase in bacteria in the small intestine, which can lead to digestive symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and food intolerances.
The SIBO breath test works by measuring the levels of gases produced by bacteria in the gut, specifically:
These gases are produced when bacteria in the small intestine ferment a sugar solution that you drink during the test. Higher-than-normal levels of hydrogen or methane in the breath may indicate bacterial overgrowth.
A SIBO test is considered positive when there is a significant rise in hydrogen or methane levels compared to your baseline breath samples within a set timeframe after drinking the test solution.
This pattern suggests that bacteria are present in higher numbers than normal in the small intestine and are actively producing gas where they shouldn’t be.
A SIBO breath test may be recommended if you have ongoing digestive symptoms such as:
It is also used to help investigate persistent symptoms that may overlap with conditions like IBS.
By detecting abnormal gas production patterns, the SIBO test helps clinicians:
A SIBO breath test detects the presence of excess bacteria in the small intestine by measuring hydrogen and methane gases produced after drinking a sugar solution. Elevated levels may indicate SIBO, helping doctors investigate the cause of persistent digestive symptoms and determine the most appropriate next steps in diagnosis and treatment.
If you are experiencing ongoing bloating, abdominal pain, or unexplained digestive symptoms, speak to Gut Diagnostics today to find out whether a SIBO test could help identify the cause.