SIBO Breath Test

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a common condition where there is an abnormal increase in the number of bacteria in the small intestine, which can cause a variety of digestive symptoms. Normally, the small intestine has a small number of bacteria, but in SIBO, the bacteria from the colon migrate upward and grow in the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, malabsorption of nutrients, and intestinal permeability (leaky gut). 

Underlying factors that can contribute to the development of SIBO include impaired small bowel motility (due neurologic disorders), structural abnormalities (from Crohn’s disease), medications (such as PPIs – proton pump inhibitors used to treat acid reflux), weakened immunity, and certain dietary factors. 

This non-invasive breath test can help to determine the presence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. It involves drinking a solution of lactulose, a type of sugar that is not fully digested in the small intestine, but is instead fermented by bacteria. As the bacteria ferment the lactulose, they produce gases such as hydrogen and methane, which are then exhaled and measured in the breath. This test measures the levels of these gases over a period of 3 hours. Abnormal levels of hydrogen and/or methane in the breath can indicate the presence of SIBO.

Test Type:

Breath test

A test kit will be mailed to you from our lab partner, DHA Laboratory, that contains detailed preparation and collection instructions.

Results:

Test results will be emailed to you from DHA Laboratory in approximately 7-10 business days. For a detailed interpretation of your results and customized recommendations, please schedule an appointment with a Village Green nutritionist.

Sample Test Report

Please Note:

All tests are authorized and reviewed by a physician from our partner laboratory.

Questions?

Email a Village Green nutritionist or call 800-869-9159.