At SIBO & IBS Clinics we offer functional medicine digestive testing to help investigate factors that may be contributing to your symptoms, influencing your health, or to check progress.
SIBO Breath test
As SIBO specialists we often use the SIBO Breath Test for clarity and precision.
If you are considering a SIBO Breath Test but are not sure if it is worthwhile, we highly recommend it. A SIBO Breath Test offers important information for ensuring appropriate and efficacious supplement or antibiotic plans. Designing a plan for SIBO is dependant on whether you are hydrogen or methane dominant, or whether the test indicates you may have hydrogen sulfide SIBO. Testing is the only way to find this out. If you suspect you may have SIBO our dedicated SIBO page may be helpful to better understand the importance of testing.
Our SIBO laboratory test
We use a reputable licensed laboratory to ensure you get the best experience when testing. Our SIBO laboratory runs regular quality controls, equipment checks, and participates in blind proficiency tests external to themselves. These quality standards provide additional assurances about test accuracy, and guards against potential variations due to shipping and environmental influences.
Stool testing
As well as a SIBO Breath test we often recommend a stool test. We have run thousands of stool tests and are well versed in interpreting and addressing any imbalances that are found.
The stool test we tend to favour includes many markers that the NHS are acquainted with, which helps your GP to take us seriously. We look at calprotectin which assesses inflammation in the gut; faecal fat to assess whether fat absorption capacity; pancreatic markers to check pancreatic digestive function; as well as occult (hidden) blood which can indicate more serious digestive issues.
Our stool test also looks at immune function in the gut via Secretory IgA, protein digestion, gut permeability, short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and Helicobacter pylori. We also delve into the Microbiome via PCR testing – meaning DNA analysis of bacteria, yeasts and parasites.
Good and bad bacteria
We hear a lot about good bacteria these days, such as the well-known Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium. But the understanding of bad bacteria and imbalanced bacteria (bacterial diversity and abundance), is currently exploding as research informs us about the role these different bacteria play in human health. For example, we know that some bacteria are associated with the production of hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen, or methane. Knowing which bacteria are present in the large intestine helps to build an overall picture of the microbial landscape.
Stool testing can provide vital information. For example, we often see results showing a positive result for Clostridium difficile that the NHS had missed. Clostridium difficile infection can result in acute episodes of diarrhoea and low energy. Once the root cause of this patient’s digestive issues was found, we could make the best informed decisions, alongside our resident private doctor, about treatment options.
Parasites
Most stool tests also check for parasites. Many people host parasites, and although new research shows some parasites can be beneficial for health – such as hookworm for treating MS – many are detrimental to health. For example, Giardia infection is associated with sulphurous flatulence, and a significant negative effect on energy levels.
Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocytis hominis can also be associated with digestive issues, and are commonly missed by NHS tests. Again – our up-to-date DNA test is effective for identifying parasite infection. Earlier this year a tapeworm was identified in a patient’s stool test, and despite being slightly unnerved they were relieved to find one of the causes of their digestive issues. Their NHS test missed this and left them with a diagnosis of IBS and an outlook of chronic ill health. The tapeworm was removed, and digestive health, and overall wellbeing, were restored.
Yeasts
Candida albicans is the most widely recognised yeast, but it is one of 20 different strains of Candida, along with other yeasts such as Geotricham Microsporidium and Rodotorula. Our DNA test checks for different yeast species. It is now known that SIFO (small intestine fungal overgrowth) can have the same symptoms as SIBO, so identifying any yeasts present is vitally important. This allows the best choices regarding dietary and supplement plans. We can refer you to our doctor for antibiotics if that is your preference, and if needed they can include antifungals as well.
Please note the cost of digestive testing is in addition to the cost of consultations.
To find out more about getting digestive testing and support for your digestive health issue book a FREE discovery call with a member of our specialist team.
FAQ
Q1: What digestive tests do you recommend?
We can recommend and arrange specialist functional medicine tests, including SIBO breath testing; comprehensive DNA stool analysis; and the Advanced Intestinal Barrier Assessment (AIBA) for leaky gut. The right tests for you are identified during your consultation.
Q2: How does a SIBO breath test work?
After a short preparation period, you drink a sugar solution (lactulose or glucose), and breath samples are collected over 2–3 hours. The samples are then sent to our specialist licensed laboratory. Hydrogen and methane gas levels are measured to determine whether SIBO is present, and which type. Knowing your SIBO type (hydrogen, methane, or hydrogen sulphide) is essential for choosing the right treatment approach.
Q3: Can I do a SIBO breath test if I am lactose intolerant?
Yes. Many people confuse lactulose sugar (used in SIBO breath tests) with lactose. Lactulose is a mixture of galactose and fructose — it is not dairy-derived and is safe for people with lactose or dairy intolerance.
Q4: What does a stool test show?
Our DNA-based stool test analyses the gut microbiome via PCR technology. It checks for parasites (including Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis hominis), bacteria (including Helicobacter pylori and Clostridium difficile), as well as all strains of candida and other yeasts. Inflammatory markers including calprotectin, secretory IgA, and faecal fat. Over 50 markers are covered.
Q5: How is testing arranged?
We do not sell tests directly. Testing is recommended and arranged as part of your consultation with one of our nutritional therapists. The cost of testing is in addition to consultation fees. Your practitioner will guide you through the process from test selection to interpretation of results.
Q6: Do you interpret test results?
Yes — interpreting test results and incorporating them into your personalised programme is a core part of what we do. If you already have test results from another provider, you can book a 90-minute initial consultation to have these reviewed and incorporated into your plan from the very first session.