GIT Breath Test (S.I.B.O) – Lactulose

This simple, non–invasive, gastrointestinal test detects bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, often referred to as BOSI or SIBO. Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that often underlies chronic gastrointestinal symptoms of maldigestion and malabsorption, including bloating, gas, diarrhea, irregularity, and abdominal pain

Bacterial concentrations in the small intestine are normally kept to a minimum. When excessive, the delicate mucosal lining is disrupted, including the microvilli that facilitate absorption. As a result, bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine (BOSI) can inhibit nutrient absorption and lead to the following serious health problems.

How you can assist once you have a test report for SIBO?
Once bacterial overgrowth has been detected, intervention strategies involving diet, digestive support, probiotics and antimicrobials can be used to treat the condition.
Successful eradication of BOSI has been shown to reduce bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain in patients more effectively than many other treatments for IBS.

Bacterial overgrowth may manifest silently, without overt clinical signs. Patients without clear symptoms of gastrointestinal distress may benefit from testing, especially those with a history of chronic constipation, hypochlorhydria (including use of acid-blocking drugs), or maldigestion.

Test details

• Test code: 2025
• Category: Microbiome Health
• Kit requirements: Lactulose Breath Test Kit
• Collection method: CI05.14.01
• Test method: GC-TCD/SSS
• Turnaround time: 1 Business Day

What is measured

• Hydrogen
• Lactulose Sugar
• Methane

Common clinical applications

• Other Health Conditions
  • Gas and bloating
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Unexplained abdominal symptoms
• Nutritional and Dietary Symptoms
  • The inability to tolerate sweet or starchy foods, fibre, or friendly flora supplements

Resources

• Patient Brochure
• Sample Report

This test should be ordered and interpreted with guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Important: Test information is general only. Results should be interpreted with a qualified health practitioner and do not replace medical advice or diagnosis.