Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Gut Bacteria Overgrowth Test

This simple, non–invasive, gastrointestinal test detects bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, often referred to as BOSI or SIBO. 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, gut bacteria 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.

Common Conditions:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Unexplained abdominal symptoms
• Gas and bloating
• The inability to tolerate sweet or starchy foods, fibre, or friendly flora supplements