SIBO Breath Test At Home: What to Expect

Are you experiencing bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, and persistent digestive discomfort? You may benefit from taking a SIBO breath test at home. 

SIBO is a complex condition that often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Working with a functional dietitian can help you get to the root cause of your digestive issues. 

Keep reading to learn about SIBO, doing a SIBO breath test at home, what causes a false test, treatment options, and more. 

If you have ongoing bloating and stomach discomfort and want solutions, visit our blog: Do Probiotics Help With Bloating? 

What is SIBO? 

SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. It’s a condition marked by an abnormal increase in bacteria in the small intestine. 

Bacteria are important for digestion, but too many can cause problems such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. 

SIBO is often misdiagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Recognizing SIBO can be key in helping someone begin to solve their digestive problems.

Diagnosing SIBO

Diagnosing SIBO accurately can be challenging. Many healthcare professionals may suggest SIBO without conducting thorough tests, which can lead to an incorrect diagnosis and ineffective treatment. 

Importantly, SIBO is frequently a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a standalone condition. Common factors contributing to SIBO include:

• Low stomach acid
• Structural issues in the gut
• Food sensitivities
• Inadequate digestion (think pancreas and gallbladder issues)

Addressing these root causes is essential for effective long-term treatment.

Types of SIBO

SIBO can be categorized into three primary types, each presenting unique challenges:

• Hydrogen-dominant SIBO – often associated with diarrhea.
• Methane-dominant SIBO – typically linked to constipation.
• Hydrogen Sulfide SIBO – correctly identifying this condition on a test can be tricky because a positive test result for hydrogen sulfide-dominant SIBO will appear negative for hydrogen and methane.

Identifying the specific type of SIBO requires specialty training (which our dietitians have) and is crucial for effective treatment.

How Diet Impacts SIBO 

Diet plays a significant role in managing SIBO. While restrictive diets, such as the low FODMAP diet, can provide temporary relief, they may not address the underlying issues. Prolonged dietary restrictions can harm the gut bacteria, leading to further complications. A balanced nutritional approach should include:

• Gradual introduction of foods
• Nutrient-dense options
• Avoiding unnecessary dietary restrictions

This is vital for long-term management and recovery.

How to Test for SIBO at Home

A SIBO breath test at home can be a convenient way to determine if small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is contributing to your digestive issues. 

We believe everyone should be able to get answers to their health issues. If you’re interested in ordering a breath test, please contact our office, and we will be happy to place the order for you. 

At our clinic, we use the Genova SIBO breath test. This test assesses bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine and is commonly recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or excessive gas. 

Researchers commonly associate SIBO with conditions such as IBS, IBD, celiac disease, diabetes, fibromyalgia, rosacea, Parkinson’s disease, and obesity. 

What to Expect & How to Prepare for a SIBO Breath Test

The SIBO breath test collection process involves several steps. The first step is to follow a specific diet 24 hours before the test collection. If this is not done, or any steps in the process are not completed correctly, your test results will be invalid.

Genova has an excellent video with instructions on how to perform the SIBO breath test. Click here for a detailed video. 

A few other things to know as you consider or prepare for a breath test are:

• This test checks for an imbalance of bacteria in your gut. You might feel unwell after completing the test.  

• We always recommend taking the test on a day when you have at least three hours to complete it without interruptions.

• Some medications and supplements can affect test results. However, we do not recommend stopping any prescription medications without clearance from your physician. 

• In some cases, you may need to stop supplements before completing the test. Always check with the ordering provider to determine the best course of action. 

What Causes a False Positive SIBO Test?

To ensure accuracy, you must adhere to the test preparation instructions. Following the guidelines provided with the test kit is essential for reliable results.

False positives in SIBO testing can occur for several reasons, including:

• Inadequate preparation for the test
• The presence of other GI issues
• Inaccurate understanding of test results

Consulting with a healthcare professional who understands the nuances of SIBO testing is crucial for a proper diagnosis. 

SIBO Test Prep Diet 

Preparing for a SIBO test involves adhering to a specific SIBO test diet for 24 to 48 hours before testing. This preparation diet may vary depending on the lab administering the test. However, a typical prep diet is usually low in fermentable foods and consists of bland, easy to digest foods. If you have not followed a prep diet, your results may not be accurate.  

Common Q&A about the SIBO breath test preparation: 

• Can I eat potatoes before the SIBO test? 

No, you cannot eat potatoes before your SIBO test. They can cause inaccurate results because they can produce gas in the intestinal tract.

• Can I have olive oil before the SIBO test?

Yes, you can have olive oil before your SIBO test. 

• Can I eat sourdough bread before the SIBO test?

Test preparation instructions may vary by lab. The lab we use (Genova) does not recommend consuming any bread before your SIBO test. 

How to Treat SIBO 

Treating SIBO often requires a multi-faceted approach that includes supporting all aspects of digestion. A complete SIBO protocol should include:

• Digestive enzymes
• Prokinetics
• SIBO-friendly probiotics and prebiotics

• Antibiotics and/or antimicrobials
• Biofilm busters 
• Dietary adjustments to support gut health before, during, and after treatment.

Working with a skilled healthcare provider is important. They can help create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Understanding why you got SIBO in the first place is also key to keeping it from recurring.

Managing SIBO Symptoms & Preventing Recurrence 

Effectively managing SIBO symptoms involves a comprehensive strategy that includes:

• Understanding why the SIBO occurred
• Strategies to prevent recurrence 
• Carefully monitoring symptoms after treatment
• Understanding that it’s completely normal (but also frustrating) to need several rounds of treatment to eradicate SIBO successfully.

Our clinic uses several strategies to prevent SIBO recurrence, including:

• Consuming a balanced diet that is high in fiber and consists of a diversity of fruits and vegetables to support healthy gut bacteria

• Lifestyle changes to support gut health

• Stress management techniques

• Proper hydration

Conclusion

SIBO is often overlooked and misdiagnosed, which leads to persistent and sometimes worsening digestive issues. Understanding the root cause and getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial to manage and treat SIBO effectively. 

If you experience symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain, or irregular bowel movements, this test could be the first step to finding relief. 

Our clinic offers comprehensive support throughout the testing process. We strive to ensure accurate results and provide you with the best possible treatment plan. 

Ready to take control of your gut health and life? Click here to schedule a FREE 15-minute call with one of our registered dietitians today.

Leave your symptoms behind and start your journey toward digestive freedom today!