Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition that affects up to 80% of individuals diagnosed with IBS, yet it remains largely under-diagnosed and misunderstood, even within the medical community. With a significant search volume for terms like "SIBO test" and "SIBO breath test," it's clear that awareness is growing. At The Natural Balance, we aim to provide you with all the information you need about SIBO testing, including the simple yet effective at-home SIBO test.
What is SIBO & why is testing important?
SIBO occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the overall bacterial population in the small intestine, especially types of bacteria not commonly found in the upper part of the digestive tract. Symptoms often mimic those of IBS and can include bloating, gas, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Given the overlap, testing for SIBO is crucial to ensure the correct diagnosis and treatment. The SIBO breath test, available through The Natural Balance, is one of the most straightforward diagnostic tools at your disposal.
How do you test for SIBO?
The test is simpler than you might think. The SIBO test kit includes everything you need to collect samples of your breath after consuming a lactulose sugary solution. If SIBO is present, the bacteria in your small intestine will metabolise the lactulose, releasing gases hydrogen and methane, which are then measured on your breath to confirm a diagnosis.
The test can be done at home, or on the NHS in the hospital or at your GP. This method, referred to as the SIBO breath test, is praised for its ease and non-invasiveness. Please check if your private health insurance covers practitioners registered with the CNHC as they may be able to cover the cost of the test.
The Natural Balance approach to SIBO
Testing for SIBO is just one of the first steps. At The Natural Balance we believe in a holistic approach, so once the breath test confirms your diagnosis, we will work with you on a treatment plan (avoiding antibiotics). This may include dietary changes, supplements, and other natural therapies designed to restore balance to your gut microbiome and alleviate symptoms.
We've seen first hand the difference this approach can make. Clients who once struggled with unexplained symptoms now enjoy a better quality of life thanks to accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
Ready to Take Control of Your Gut Health?
If you suspect SIBO might be the source of your discomfort, or if you're simply looking for more information on SIBO testing, we can help.
If you're interested in testing for SIBO, or would like past results interpreted, get in touch with us today. We'd love to discuss your symptoms with you!
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Kelly Mulhall
Registered Nutritional Therapist
Kelly is a Registered Nutritional Therapist who focuses on positive physical and mental wellbeing, achieved through diet, lifestyle, sleep and exercise. Having struggled for years with IBS and hormonal imbalance, and increasingly frustrated with the lack of support and helpful advice from her GP, Kelly began her own journey of healing the body from the inside out. After seeing huge improvements she quit her job to study nutrition and focus on harnessing the healing powers of food to help other people in similar situations.
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