SIBO Breath Testing

SIBO Breath Testing

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, or SIBO, occurs when excess bacteria build up in the small intestine, leading to uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and constipation. Normally, the small intestine contains fewer bacteria than the large intestine, but when this balance is disrupted, bacteria can ferment undigested carbohydrates, producing hydrogen or methane gases. These gases can cause the symptoms often linked to SIBO and contribute to ongoing digestive distress.

The SIBO breath test is a non-invasive and effective way to identify whether SIBO is present and which types of gases are being produced, providing crucial information for tailored treatment.

What Can SIBO Breath Testing Help Identify?

The SIBO breath test helps detect bacterial overgrowth by measuring hydrogen and methane gases produced after consuming specific sugars like lactulose, glucose, or fructose. It can identify:

• The presence of excess bacteria in the small intestine
• The predominant type of gas produced—hydrogen, methane, or both—which can influence symptoms and guide treatment
• Underlying causes of persistent bloating, gas, indigestion, diarrhoea, or constipation
• Whether dietary carbohydrates are fermenting improperly in the gut
• Potential causes of nutrient malabsorption or deficiencies linked to bacterial overgrowth

Who Should Consider SIBO Breath Testing?

If you are experiencing ongoing digestive issues such as:

• Bloating and excessive gas (especially after certain foods like garlic and onion)
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Irregular bowel habits including diarrhoea or constipation
• Unexplained fatigue or nutrient deficiencies
• Symptoms that persist despite standard treatments for IBS or other gut conditions

How Is the SIBO Breath Test Done?

The test involves drinking a solution containing specific sugars like lactulose, glucose, or fructose, which act as substrates for bacterial fermentation. Over a period of two to three hours, breath samples are collected at regular intervals and analysed for hydrogen and methane gas levels. 

How Are Results Used?

Breath test results help your practitioner understand the type and extent of bacterial overgrowth and guide targeted treatment strategies. Knowing whether hydrogen or methane is predominant influences the choice of therapies and dietary recommendations. This personalised approach improves treatment success and helps relieve symptoms effectively.

Ready to Understand What’s Really Going on in Your Gut?

If you are experiencing persistent digestive discomfort and want to uncover whether SIBO may be contributing to your symptoms, book a consultation with one of our experienced practitioners at Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic. We will guide you through testing and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.