About SIBO: SIBO

(Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) is a condition where there's an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms and affect your gut health.

Symptoms of SIBO:

The symptoms of SIBO can be multifaceted and typically include gas, bloating, pain or cramps in the stomach, diarrhea, and/or constipation. If you experience these symptoms, it might be worth investigating if SIBO could be the underlying cause.

Who should get tested for SIBO?

Individuals suffering from chronic gastrointestinal issues, such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), and who have recurring symptoms similar to SIBO, should consider getting tested. It's also valuable for those who want to explore their gut health and gain a clearer picture of any potential bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.

Are there bacteria in the small intestine?

Yes, there's normally a certain amount of bacteria in the small intestine. However, the number and balance of these bacteria should be well-regulated to maintain optimal gut health. SIBO occurs when there's an overgrowth of these bacteria in the small intestine, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and disrupt the function of the gut.

How do you know if you have SIBO?

To determine if you have SIBO, Nordictest offers a convenient home test. The test measures gas levels in your exhaled air after you've consumed a special sugar solution. By analyzing these gas levels, the test can provide indications of potential bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.

SIBO – How is the test conducted?

Our SIBO test is easy to perform in the comfort of your own home. The test comes with clear instructions and everything you need to collect your exhalation sample. After consuming the sugar solution, you follow a given timeframe to collect your exhalation sample. Then, send the sample to our lab for analysis.

Your SIBO test report

If your results show an overgrowth, you'll receive recommendations in your report on how to address the imbalance if you choose to do so.

How do you get rid of SIBO?

Treating SIBO is individualized and should be conducted in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Typically, treatment involves a combination of dietary changes, antibiotics, and possibly probiotics to restore a balanced gut environment. It's important to get an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment to effectively manage SIBO.

Important considerations before the SIBO test

To ensure the test doesn't give a false result, please follow our recommendations and avoid the following:

2–4 WEEKS BEFORE THE TEST:

– Wait at least four weeks if you've recently undergone antibiotic treatment, colonoscopy, barium studies, barium enema, or have had diarrhea.

7 DAYS BEFORE THE TEST:

– Avoid using laxatives, stool softeners and/or bulking agents, and antacid agents containing aluminum or magnesium hydroxide.

48 HOURS BEFORE THE TEST:

– Refrain from probiotics and alcohol.
– Foods ALLOWED: oven-baked/fried chicken, fish, or turkey (only salt and pepper), white bread (only, no fibers), plain steamed white rice, eggs, clear chicken or beef broth without vegetable bits. Vegetarians can eat tofu seasoned with salt and pepper.
– You can only drink plain water, coffee, and tea (without sugar, artificial sweeteners, milk, or cream).

24 HOURS BEFORE THE TEST:

– Stop taking probiotics 24 hours before the test.
– Foods ALLOWED before starting your 12-hour fast: Oven-baked or fried chicken, fish, or turkey (only salt and pepper), white bread (only), plain steamed white rice, eggs, clear chicken or beef broth without vegetable bits. Vegetarians can eat tofu seasoned with salt and pepper.
– You can only drink plain water, coffee, and tea (without sugar, artificial sweeteners, milk, or cream).

12 HOURS BEFORE THE TEST:

– The last 12 hours are the fasting period. Consume NOTHING but water during the 12 hours before and during the test.
– Do not take non-essential medications or supplements until the test is completed, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
– Do not chew gum, eat candy, or use mouthwash until after the test is completed.

ONE HOUR BEFORE THE TEST:

– NO smoking (including passive smoking) at least one hour before or anytime during the breath test.
– NO sleeping or strenuous exercise at least one hour before or anytime during the breath test.
– Do not use toothpaste.