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 overgrowth can inhibit nutrient absorption and lead to the following serious health problems:
- Altered intestinal permeability (leaky gut)
- Carbohydrate intolerance
- Malabsorption
- Malnutrition and weight loss
- Anemia
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Osteoporosis
Causes of small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO/BOSI):
- Crohn's Disease
- Adhesions
- Radiation Damage
- Lymphoma
Normally, far fewer bacteria inhabit the small intestine than the ample growth found in the colon. Gastric acid secretion and intestinal motility keep the small intestine relatively free of bacteria. However, a wide range of abnormalities and malfunctions can encourage bacteria to multiply in the small intestine causing SIBO/BOSI. The most common causes of SIBO/BOSI relate to a decrease in the production of hydrochloric acid or pancreatic enzymes, thereby creating an unsterile environment for the small intestine.
The Bacterial Overgrowth of the Small Intestine Breath Test (SIBO/BOSI) is appropriate for patients who demonstrate:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal disorder, affecting 20% of the general population. The SIBO test aids in identifying the actual cause of IBS. Studies suggest that as many as 50-75% of patients with IBS have SIBO/BOSI, as demonstrated by hydrogen breath testing
- Unexplained abdominal symptoms, especially gas and bloating
- The inability to tolerate sweet or starchy foods, fiber, or friendly flora supplements
• Specimen Requirements: Six fasting breath samples—at baseline, 20 min, 40 min, 60 min, 90 min, 120 min
• Before Patient Takes This Test: - Avoid high-fiber foods and supplements (2 days before) - Eat a light dinner (on the night before) - Fast (12 hours before) - Inform practitioner of all medications and supplements - See instructions inside test kit for details
Also Known As:
(BOSI / SIBO)
Preparation:
A week before testing avoid the use of laxatives, restricted diet the day before (please refer to kit instructions for detailed information regarding important prep before starting test), and 12 hours fasting prior to the test. Ship to lab Monday-Thursday only. Please read all of the directions and the collection procedures prior to starting test.
Test Results:
10-12 Days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
