SIBO BREATH TEST
Normally, bacteria are found in the trillions in the large intestine, where they perform various functions for the human body. SIBO is defined as an increase in the number of bacteria, and/or changes in the types of bacteria present in the small intestine. In most patients, SIBO is not caused by a single type of bacteria, but an overgrowth of the bacteria that should normally be found in the colon.
Prevalence estimates are based on a percentage of the population with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This is 11-14% of the population globally and 17% in New Zealand. It is the most common gastrointestinal diagnosis in primary care although it is thought that up to 50% of people with symptoms of IBS do not consult their GP. Studies also show that over 50% of patients diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO.
Prevalence estimates are based on a percentage of the population with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This is 11-14% of the population globally and 17% in New Zealand. It is the most common gastrointestinal diagnosis in primary care although it is thought that up to 50% of people with symptoms of IBS do not consult their GP. Studies also show that over 50% of patients diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO.
SIBO Effects
SIBO has been shown to negatively affect both the structure and function of the small bowel. It may significantly interfere with digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, primarily by damaging the cells lining the small bowel (the mucosa).
Bacterial endotoxins and lipopolysaccarides (LPS) can have wide ranging effects systemically. Additionally, this damage to the small bowel mucosa can lead to impaired gut permeability which is known to have a number of potential complications including immune reactions that cause food allergies or sensitivities, generalised inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
There are two main types of bacteria present in SIBO:
How does the SIBO test work?
SIBO has been shown to negatively affect both the structure and function of the small bowel. It may significantly interfere with digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, primarily by damaging the cells lining the small bowel (the mucosa).
Bacterial endotoxins and lipopolysaccarides (LPS) can have wide ranging effects systemically. Additionally, this damage to the small bowel mucosa can lead to impaired gut permeability which is known to have a number of potential complications including immune reactions that cause food allergies or sensitivities, generalised inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
There are two main types of bacteria present in SIBO:
- Methanogenic bacteria – associated with constipation and biliary dyskinesia
- Hydrogenic bacteria – often associated with loose stool
How does the SIBO test work?
- A restricted diet is required for 24 hours in preparation.
- Following a collection of a baseline breath sample, either a lactulose or glucose test substrate is consumed.
- The bacteria may ferment the lingering substrate and produce hydrogen and/or methane. These gases are absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled through the breath.
- Breath samples are collected every 15-20 minutes (depending on the substrate used) for up to 3 hours and analysed for the amount of hydrogen, methane and CO2 produced.
- This test can be done at home and samples sent to SIBOTest.nz for analysis via a prepaid courier (supplied).
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