Ordering the Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test | 3-Hrs | Europe
Ordering the Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test helps identify if too many bacteria are present in the small intestine, which can cause gas, bloating, and changes in digestion. Interestingly, this test can also show if both hydrogen and methane gases are produced, which helps pinpoint where the bacterial overgrowth is happening in the digestive tract.
Ordering this test offers several specific benefits:
- Measures both hydrogen and methane to help locate the overgrowth in the small intestine
- Uses a simple breath sample, making it non-invasive and easy to do at home
- Helps detect causes of bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort that other tests may miss
- Can reveal hidden issues like carbohydrate intolerance or malabsorption
- Supports targeted treatment by showing which gases are elevated
Who Should Consider Breath Analysis for Gut Bacteria Imbalance
People who often feel bloated, have frequent gas, or experience stomach cramps after eating may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has tried changing their diet but still deals with unpredictable digestive issues could use this test to find out if bacteria in the small intestine are the cause.
Ordering may also be helpful in these situations:
- Frequent belching or flatulence that does not improve with common remedies
- Unexplained constipation or diarrhea that comes and goes
- Food intolerance symptoms, such as nausea or stomach pain after eating certain foods
- Long-term indigestion that has not responded to antacids or other treatments
- People with conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, since gut bacteria imbalance can sometimes play a role
Testing for bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine can help identify the reason for ongoing digestive symptoms, allowing for more focused treatment and fewer unnecessary changes to diet or supplements. Delaying this test may allow symptoms to continue or worsen, making it harder to find the right solution later.
How to Prepare for Digestive Gas and Gut Flora Testing
Fasting is required for at least 12 hours before collecting your breath samples for this test. Make sure to carefully follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare practitioner provides to ensure the best possible results and avoid needing to repeat the test.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrogen (Breath) | 0-20 ppm (baseline); Rise of >20 ppm above baseline within 90-120 min is positive |
Hydrogen in the breath is produced when bacteria in the small intestine ferment sugars. High levels after drinking lactulose suggest bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. | High levels mean bacteria are fermenting sugars in the small intestine, which can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Low levels mean there is little or no bacterial fermentation, or the bacteria present do not produce hydrogen. |
| Methane (Breath) | 0-10 ppm (baseline); Rise of >10 ppm above baseline within 90-120 min is positive |
Methane is produced by certain gut bacteria called methanogens. High methane levels are linked to constipation and can help identify the type of bacterial imbalance present. | High levels mean methanogen bacteria are present and active, often linked to constipation and slow digestion.
Low levels mean there are few or no methanogen bacteria, or they are not producing methane. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and guidelines.
Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test FAQ
Is there Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test testing near me?
This is a home test kit, so you can collect your breath samples wherever you are most comfortable; check the draw location link at the top of the page for more details. For people dealing with unpredictable digestive symptoms, being able to collect samples at home makes it easier to get tested without extra travel or waiting.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand what your results mean and what steps you can take next.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see includes standard shipping to your address and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if bacterial overgrowth is causing your digestive symptoms, so you can start targeted treatment sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended 2-3 months after starting treatment or making changes based on your results, especially if symptoms continue or return. This helps track progress and shows if further steps are needed.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses breath samples to measure hydrogen and methane after drinking lactulose, a method shown to have a sensitivity of about 80% and specificity of 85%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- The test kit is mailed via Royal Mail. If you prefer DHL, please send an email to [email protected]
- READ: These tests are available for European countries only.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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