Could your IBS be SIBO?

Yes, with a few caveats. We refer to SIBO as a condition for simplicity, but it’s technically a dysbiotic state in which there’s too much bacteria in the small intestine. For some people this can cause no symptoms at all, but for others it can contribute to a variety of symptoms. In this way, SIBO isn’t a condition in and of itself—but an imbalance that contributes to other diagnosable conditions. Having said this, SIBO is certainly something that’s detectable and treatable. The North American Consensus, which was written in 2017, defines the state and outlines the best way to test for it. You can read a copy of this consensus here.

The only way to be sure you have SIBO is to take a breath test. However, if you suffer from IBS, fibromyalgia or rosacea, you’re much more likely to have to condition. Other common SIBO symptoms are listed above.

Anyone suffering from IBS or fibromyalgia should take this test. This is because 84% of IBS cases are actually believed to be SIBO, while 77% of people with fibromyalgia also have SIBO. If you suffer from rosacea or digestive symptoms that haven’t responded to more common interventions, this test could be helpful for you too.

At the moment we only ship to UK addresses. We’re looking to expand, so watch this space.

1 x test instructions

1 x dietary advice sheet

1 x request form

1 x 15ml drinkable test solution

1 x blue ‘EasySampler’ mouthpiece and bag

1 x ‘EasySampler’ instruction sheet

10 x glass tubes

10 x sample tube labels

1 x bubble wrap return packet

1 x cardboard box for return

1 x postal bag

1 x return address label

You can download full instructions on our FAQs page.

You must not stop any medications in order to take this test. Please speak to your GP first. If you’re currently taking antibiotics or herbal antimicrobials, wait 4 weeks after finishing the course of treatment before taking the test. We recommend avoiding taking probiotics for 48 hours before taking the test.

You should avoid high-fibre or slowly digesting foods for at least 24 hours before taking the test. You must also avoid all food 8–12 hours before taking the test. The whole testing process takes 3 hours, so you’ll need to make sure you can fit it into your day. For more information, see the test instructions on our FAQs page.

Your results will be posted on your online account a maximum of one week after you return your samples.

Simply log in to your Healthpath account here and click ‘Tests’. You’ll be able to access your results and personalised recommendations one week after returning your samples (sometimes sooner).

All your results data is accompanied by clear, jargon-free explanations. Our practitioners also review all results, providing personalised recommendations that are easy-to-follow and specific to you.

Functional tests are highly specialised and currently not offered through the NHS. At present, the only option is to pay for them privately. We appreciate you want to spend your money wisely, which is why we only offer tests that are genuinely helpful.

It’s possible, though you’ll need to check the details of your insurance to see what’s included.