What is small intestinal bowel overgrowth (SIBO)?
SIBO, or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, is a disorder wherein an overabundance of microorganisms exist in the small intestines, which is caused by the migration of bacteria from the large intestine. Symptoms of SIBO include abdominal soreness, bloating, flatulence, looseness of the bowels, constipation, and tiredness. To treat SIBO, certain food items should be removed from the diet as they serve as nourishment for the bacteria in the small intestine. This includes processed foods, refined starches, and sugary items. Additionally, decreasing fiber intake can help relieve the symptoms.
What is the SIBO breath test?
An assessment to diagnose small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is known as a SIBO breath test. This test requires the patient to blow air into a tube periodically over a specific amount of time. The air samples are then examined for the existence of certain gases that are created by bacteria in the small intestine. If these gases are found in the collected samples, it suggests that there is an overabundance of bacteria in the small intestine, which is a symptom of SIBO.
Where is the test performed?
The test is peformed in your home. We send you the test kit with all the instructions and once finished you send it back in a free returns package. It takes 14 days to get the results.
SIBO Test Instructions
One should abstain from laxatives, stool softeners, and/or stool bulking agents, as well as antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide, seven days before the test. In the 24 hours before the test, probiotics should not be consumed either. In the 12 hours leading up to the test, one should only drink plain water, coffee, and tea (with no sweeteners, milk, or cream). During this time, no other foods, medications, or products such as gum, sweets, or mouthwash should be taken. Allowed foods for the 12 hours before the test include baked or broiled chicken, fish, or turkey (with only salt and pepper), plain white bread, plain steamed white rice, eggs, and clear chicken or beef broth that does not contain any veg.
SIBO TEST COST
- €190 plus shipping
How we can help?
If you have had any issues with digestion, tiredness, aniexty/depression, or unexplained symptoms, please get in contact with us at the Dublin Centre for Functional Medicine. We are more than willing to set up a free, 15-minute discussion to explore your health concerns.