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SIBOtest

SIBOTest.com provides fast, accurate, testing services in the diagnosis of SIBO and IBS. Normal stomach acid levels are required to kill bacteria.

Normally, bacteria are found in the trillions in the LARGE INTESTINE, where they perform various symbiotic functions for the human body. SIBO is a condition where bacterial overgrowth occurs in the absorptive area of the body—the SMALL INTESTINE. Symptoms of SIBO can include:
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Alternating constipation and diarrhoea
Abdominal cramping
Bloating and/or wind
Burping and Acid reflux/GORD
Food sensitivities
Joint pain
Skin rashes
Iron and B12 deficiency
Respiratory symptoms such as asthma
SIBO can occur when
The ileocecal valve (which connects the large and the small intestine) is dysfunctional, allowing large intestinal bacteria to migrate upwards into the small intestine where they wreak havoc. The normal cleansing wave of the small intestine is disrupted or stopped – this cleansing wave is called the Migrating Motor Complex (MMS), and occurs approximately every 90 minutes, typically between meals. The function of the MMC is to wash out accumulated bacteria and propel them toward the colon. The MMC is not related to the peristaltic waves of the large intestines. The result is bacteria are allowed to grow and proliferate throughout the small intestine (a little over 6 meters in length). SIBO causes damage to the absorptive surface of the small intestine - the ability of the body to absorb nutrients from food. The absorptive surface of the small intestine is likened to a shaggy carpet, with finger-like protrusions called villi. The surface of the villi contain microvilli which act as the interface of absorption—microvilli secrete enzymes called “brush border enzymes” which break starches into single molecules, proteins into single amino acids so these can be absorbed. SIBO can result in
Malabsorption of monosaccharides and amino acids (carbohydrates and proteins)
Fermentation of disaccharides by bacteria causing hydrogen, methane and hydrogen sulphate gasses
These gasses themselves are damaging to the gut wall
Malabsorption of vitamins (especially B12 and Folic acid)
Malabsorption of minerals (especially, magnesium, iron, and calcium SIBO can cause leaky gut, with a damaged gut wall allowing larger particles to pass through, causing an immune response. Causes of SIBO
Post infectious: a case of gastroenteritis can often be the “heralding event” for the development of SIBO
Overconsumption of simple carbohydrates
Medications: proton pump inhibitors, morphine and other opiates, narcotics, possibly beta agonists and calcium channel blockers
Stress: chronic stress can decrease stomach acid output (hypochlorhydria). Stress also causes changes in the motility of the small intestines, causing a pooling and stagnation which allows for bacterial overgrowth
Altered anatomy: malformation of the ileocecal valve, surgical intervention causing scarring and adhesions altering the normal anatomy of the small intestines
Initial colonization of bad bacteria: caesarean birth, no breast feeding. Associated conditions
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – especially associated with diarrhoea dominant SIBO
Chronic constipation – associated with methane-dominant SIBO
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory Bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
Acid reflux
Coeliac disease
Interstitial Cystitis
Restless leg syndrome
Acne
Rosacea
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Scleroderma
Chronic Prostatitis
Non alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
Liver cirrhosis
Diverticulitis

22/09/2025

Why We Follow the North American Consensus for SIBO Breath Testing 🧪

At SIBOtest, we follow the North American Consensus because it remains the most widely recognised and validated framework for diagnosing SIBO via breath test.

Published in 2017 by an international panel of leading experts — including Dr Mark Pimentel from Cedars-Sinai, a global leader in SIBO and IBS research — this consensus set the foundation for modern breath testing standards. Its principles continue to guide the majority of clinical trials, diagnostic tools, and treatment protocols worldwide.

While emerging guidelines from Europe and Asia contribute valuable insights, the North American approach is still the most extensively studied and applied in everyday practice.

At SIBOtest, our priority is ensuring your results are interpreted using the most robust, research-backed standards available.

28/08/2025

🤔 What Does an Invalid Sample Mean on Your SIBOtest?

If your report shows an invalid sample (marked in red), it means CO₂ was below 1.5% — usually from a collection error. We measure CO₂ in every sample as a quality control marker. Levels above 1.5% confirm the breath came from your lungs (where gases like hydrogen and methane are exchanged). If CO₂ is too low, it means too much room air was captured, making the sample unreliable.

Common reasons:
🔹 Room air contamination (forced breath)
🔹 Poor seal - Tube not pushed all the way onto the needle
🔹 Not exhaling fully
🔹 Collecting too early or too late in the breath

Tips for valid samples:
✅ Watch our instruction video first
✅ Collect mid-breath, breathing normally (no forceful blowing)
✅ Make sure the vial seals properly
✅ Take your time — don’t rush

An invalid sample doesn’t always mean an invalid test. If you need help, our Customer Support team is here for you 💙

customersupport@sibotest.com
02 66840814

26/08/2025

🔬 Interpreting Your Breath Test Results 🔬

Understanding the results of your lactulose breath test can provide valuable insights into what’s happening in your gut. Here's a breakdown of what the results might mean:

Test results:
🔹 SIBO – A rise of 20ppm or more of Hydrogen within the first 90-100 mins.
🔹 IMO – Methane ≥10 ppm, often steady from baseline.
🔹 Mixed – Both hydrogen and methane are elevated.
🔹 Negative – No hydrogen rise before 100 mins; may need an additional substrate to rule out SIBO.

Other patterns:
🔸 High baseline hydrogen (>15 ppm) – Possible poor prep or oral microbiome.
🔸 ‘Hidden’ SIBO – Methane microbes using hydrogen may mask hydrogen-positive SIBO.
🔸 Flatline (

24/08/2025

🟡 Understanding the Methane Spot Test 🟡

The Methane Spot Test is a quick, single-sample breath test designed to assess methane-related constipation. It can be particularly useful for patients who experience constipation without the typical symptoms of SIBO, or as a follow-up when a high baseline methane level has previously been recorded on a lactulose breath test.

This test is specific for Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO), focusing on the role methane production plays in slowing gut motility and contributing to constipation.

🔎 Results at a glance:
🟡 Methane positive: A baseline methane level of ≥10 ppm indicates IMO
The Methane Spot Test offers a streamlined way to evaluate methane levels for both initial assessment and ongoing monitoring.

SIBOtest is currently the only provider of this test in Australia, giving patients and practitioners greater access to targeted methane testing.

To order a Methane Spot Test, speak to your practitioner or visit www.sibotest.com.

22/08/2025

🔴Understanding the Fructose Breath Test 🔴

While not traditionally used for SIBO testing, the Fructose breath test has gained popularity through clinical experience. This test can detect both Fructose Malabsorption (FM) and SIBO, making it a versatile choice for individuals experiencing symptoms related to the consumption of fructose-containing foods.

🔎 Results Overview:
🔴Hydrogen Elevated:
SIBO - An increase of 20 ppm or greater within the first 100 minutes.
FM - An increase of 20 ppm or greater after 100 minutes.
🔴Methane Elevated:
IMO - Considered elevated with any reading of ≥10 ppm

Like the glucose test, fructose can be used alongside lactulose, in the Fructose Advanced, for a thorough assessment, or for the most extensive evaluation, it is part of our SIBO Comprehensive, which includes lactulose, glucose, and fructose.

To order a SIBOtest, speak to your practitioner or visit www.sibotest.com.

21/08/2025

🟢 Understanding the Glucose Breath Test 🟢

The Glucose Breath Test is another valuable tool for detecting SIBO. Glucose is readily fermented by all bacteria, making it a reliable substrate in the upper small intestine. However, because it is absorbed quite quickly, overgrowth in the distal small intestine may be missed.

🔎 Results at a glance:
🟢 Hydrogen positive: A rise of ≥12 ppm within 100 minutes indicates SIBO
🟢 Methane positive: Considered positive with any reading of ≥10 ppm

For more complex cases, many practitioners use the SIBO Advanced Breath Test (lactulose + glucose). This combination can help to highlight different fermentation patterns and provide greater clarity in the assessment.

To order a SIBOtest, speak to your practitioner or visit www.sibotest.com

19/08/2025

🔵 Understanding the Lactulose Breath Test 🔵

The Lactulose breath test is a trusted functional tool commonly used by healthcare practitioners and an excellent starting point for assessing SIBO.

Lactulose is often chosen because it is a non-digestible carbohydrate that ferments as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract, enabling the detection of SIBO throughout all sections of the small intestine, into the large intestine. This test provides a conclusive result in most cases, offering valuable insights into your digestive health.

🔎 Results Overview:
🔵Hydrogen Positive: Indicates SIBO with a rise of ≥20 ppm by 100 minutes
🔵Methane Positive: Considered positive with any reading of ≥10 ppm

The SIBO Basic is an essential tool for comprehensive gut health evaluation.

To order a SIBOtest, speak to your practitioner or visit www.sibotest.com.

18/08/2025

🤔 Looking for a qualified SIBO practitioner?

So your breath test has come back positive for SIBO… now is the time to act.
Getting the right support early can make all the difference in your recovery.

Our Practitioner Search page connects you with healthcare providers who have completed the SIBO Mastery Program and are SIBO Doctor approved – meaning they’re trained, experienced, and ready to guide you through the right treatment plan.

Don’t wait. Find your practitioner today 👉 www.sibotest.com/practitioners/search

16/08/2025

We’re excited to be a Bronze Sponsor at the 10th Annual NIIM Symposium this September! 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️

📅 11–12 September 2025
📍 Amora Riverwalk Hotel, Richmond VIC
🎟 Tickets on sale now!

Come visit Dr Nirala Jacobi and the SIBOtest team to connect, explore our testing options and specials, and discuss how we can support your patients with SIBO and IMO.

We look forward to seeing you there!

15/08/2025

🚦Understanding IMO

Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO) occurs when methane-producing archaea – primarily Methanobrevibacter smithii – overgrow in the gut. This condition was previously referred to as “SIBO-C”, but the name was updated to reflect that archaea, not bacteria, are responsible.

Methanogens use hydrogen and carbon dioxide, supplied by hydrogen-producing bacteria such as Ruminococcus, to produce methane. While this process can reduce total gas volume in the gut, methane slows intestinal transit by increasing intestinal spasms, leading to a whole host of symptoms.

Symptoms may include:
🔸Constipation
🔸Bloating
🔸Gas
🔸Abdominal discomfort
🔸Belching
🔸Nausea

On a breath test, IMO is indicated by methane levels of 10 ppm or more at any point during testing, particularly in the presence of constipation. Methanogens may also be detected via stool, although not all tests screen for them, and they may be missed.

Humans do not produce methane themselves. If methane is detected on a breath test, it is generated by methanogens living in the intestines. It is also important to note that Methane levels often increase with age, and not all individuals with methanogen overgrowth experience constipation.

While methanogens can be part of a healthy microbiome, overgrowth can disrupt gut function and slow motility significantly.

27/07/2025

Do You Have ❓

Over the years, SIBO symptoms have become more easily identifiable, making diagnosis easier and leading to faster relief for many who have suffered for years or months.

Give our quick online test a go if you’ve been waiting or wondering whether you, a friend, or a family member should be checked and diagnosed by a Doctor for SIBO.

🔗 Visit https://sibotest.com/quizzes/1

And remember, it is always best to test! ✅🧪

24/07/2025

What is a breath test? 🌬️

The breath test is a simple, non-invasive test for SIBO. 🧪

After a 24–48 hour preparation diet, a test substrate is consumed. This test substrate acts as a food for bacteria, if present, in the small intestine. The bacteria ferment the test substrate and produce hydrogen and/or methane gas. These gases are absorbed into circulation and exhaled via the breath. Breath samples are collected every 15-20 minutes for up to 3 hours. 🫁

All our tests are analysed using Quintron Breathtracker instrumentation, which is considered the gold standard. Extensive quality control, including carbon dioxide measurements to ensure an acceptable alveolar air sample, complies with the highest standards of breath analysis. ✅

To order, visit SIBOtest.com.

Address

Mullumbimby, NSW

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Website

http://www.sibotest.com/

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