A Small Intestinal Bacteria Overgrowth breath test using glucose as the substrate.
 
The breath test measures hydrogen and methane gasses in response to glucose, a monosaccharide. This simple carbohydrate is readily absorbed in the first section of the small intestine. For this reason, there should not be a rise in gas, as it typically does not reach the colon where bacteria metabolise carbohydrates.
 
If SIBO is present, the bacteria will begin to metabolise glucose, producing hydrogen and/ or methane gas.
 
Due to its rapid absorption, glucose may not reach the distal section of the small intestine; therefore the glucose test is best used alongside lactulose to assess the entire small intestine.
 
The breath collection device included in the kits ensures accurate measuring of alveolar air and not room air, thus guarding against potential false negatives associated with other breath collection processes.