SIBO Testing

A test to assess Small Intestinal Bacteria Overgrowth

Normally, bacteria are found in the trillions in the LARGE INTESTINE, where they perform various symbiotic functions for the human body. SIBO is a condition where bacterial overgrowth occurs in the absorptive area of the body the SMALL INTESTINE.

The breath test is a simple, non-invasive test. After a 24 hours preparatory diet, the lactulose (or glucose or fructose) test substrate is swallowed. Lactulose is not absorbed and therefore may act as a food source for bacteria, if present, in the small intestine. The bacteria may ferment the lingering substances and produce hydrogen and/or methane. These gasses may then be diffused into the bloodstream and exhaled via the breath. Breath samples are collected every 20 minutes for 3 hours.

Causes of SIBO:

  • Post-infectious: a case of gastroenteritis can often be the “heralding event” for the development of SIBO

  • Overconsumption of simple carbohydrates

  • Medications: proton pump inhibitors, morphine and other opiates, narcotics, possibly beta-agonists and calcium channel blockers

  • Stress: chronic stress can decrease stomach acid output (hypochlorhydria).

  • Normal stomach acid levels are required to kill bacteria

  • Stress also causes changes in the motility of the small intestines, causing a pooling and stagnation which allows for bacterial overgrowth

  • Altered anatomy: malformation of the ileocecal valve, surgical intervention causing scarring and adhesions altering the normal anatomy of the small intestines

  • Initial colonization of bad bacteria: caesarean birth, no breastfeeding


Indications for SIBO Test

  • Diarrhoea

  • Constipation

  • Alternating constipation and diarrhoea

  • Abdominal cramping

  • Bloating and/or wind

  • Burping and Acid Reflux/GORD

  • Food sensitivities

  • Joint pain

  • Skin rashes

  • Iron and B12 deficiency

  • Respiratory symptoms such as asthma

Pricing

Complete SIBO Test (fructose, glucose and lactulose) - $469 + postage

Before all testing is carried out, an Initial Nutritional Medicine Consult or Initial Naturopathic Consultation is required to determine suitability of the test.
(Pricing current as of Jan 2023. Prices are subject to change without notice).

So what are you waiting for?

Book your Initial Nutritional Medicine Consultation or Initial Naturopathic Consultation


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