Do you suffer from chronic bloating, abdominal pain or digestive problems? You may be troubled by SIBO – the syndrome of bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine. This insidious disease affects more and more people, but many do not even know about it.

What is Sibo and why should you be interested in?

Sibo is a condition in which excessive propagation of bacteria in the small intestine occurs. Normally, most of the digestive tract bacteria are found in the large intestine. However, in Sibo, bacteria colonize the small intestine, leading to digestive disorders and nutrient absorption.

This condition disrupts the natural balance of your digestive system. Bacteria ferment food in places where this should not happen. The result is not only unpleasant bloating, but also gradual damage to the intestinal mucosa.

Warning signals that you shouldn’t ignore

The most common manifestations of SIBO are:

  • Bloating and excessive flatulence – worsens typically after a meal
  • Abdominal pain – blunt, convulsive or burning
  • Diarrhea or constipation – often alternate
  • Feeling of fullness after a meal – even after small portions
  • Food intolerances – especially for lactose and fructose
  • Fatigue and weakness – a consequence of impaired nutrient absorption

Why is the SIBO test crucial for your health?

Many SIBO symptoms are non -specific and may also occur in other diseases of the digestive tract. Therefore, correct diagnosis is crucial.

The SIBO test, most often in the form of a hydrogen breathing test, makes it possible to accurately determine the presence of excessive amounts of bacteria in the small intestine. As a result, appropriate treatment can be used, which may include antibiotic therapy, probiotics and diet adjustment.

Untreated SIBO can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, causing serious health problems, including anemia and osteoporosis.

Who should consider the SIBO test?

The test is recommended to persons with chronic digestive problems, especially if these symptoms persist despite standard treatment. Risk factors include:

  • Previous abdominal surgery
  • Chronic use of drugs suppressing gastric acid formation
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Connective tissue diseases
  • Chronic pancreatic diseases

How is the test and how to prepare for it?

In the case of a hydrogen brass test, the patient shall eat a solution containing some sugar and subsequently the exhaled air samples are taken at regular intervals. Increased hydrogen and methane values ​​may indicate the presence of SIBO.

Proper preparation is important for the reliability of the results. It is recommended to avoid fiber, probiotics and some medicines a few days before the examination. Keep the day before the test to an easily digestible diet and do not eat 12 hours before examination.

The test lasts approximately 2-3 hours and is painless. The results are usually available immediately or within a few days.

It soothes the intestines and satisfies the sweet taste. You can eat it during a diet