Description

3-Hour SIBO Assessment (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

Longer Duration Breath Test | Ideal for Constipation-Type SIBO

Shipping Nationwide

The 3-Hour SIBO Assessment is a non-invasive, at-home breath test that detects hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacterial fermentation in the small intestine—a hallmark of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). This extended 3-hour test is especially recommended for individuals with slow transit time or chronic constipation, as these symptoms may delay the appearance of fermentation gases.

What You'll Get with the Report

  • Hydrogen & Methane Gas Levels measured over a 3-hour window
  • Interpretation of gas patterns to differentiate between:
  • Hydrogen-dominant SIBO
  • Methane-dominant SIBO (also called Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth, or IMO)
  • Mixed or borderline results
  • Detailed timeline charts showing gas production over time
  • Lab analysis conducted by experts in GI testing
  • Results you can share with your healthcare provider to guide treatment decisions, such as antibiotics, herbal antimicrobials, motility agents, or dietary therapies

Who Should Get This Test?

The 3-hour SIBO test is ideal for individuals experiencing:

  • Chronic constipation or slow bowel movements
  • Bloating shortly after eating (especially upper abdomen)
  • Excessive gas, belching, or abdominal discomfort
  • IBS symptoms, especially IBS-C (constipation-dominant)
  • Brain fog, fatigue, or nutrient malabsorption
  • History of food poisoning, antibiotic use, or abdominal surgery
  • Symptoms that temporarily improve with a low-FODMAP or elemental diet
  • Suspected methane overproduction (which slows motility)

Important Collection Instructions

This test is time-sensitive and requires specific preparation for accurate results:

  • Collect samples in the morning across a 3-hour window without interruptions.
  • 24 hours before collection: Follow a specific restricted diet (low fermentable foods).
  • 12 hours before testing: Begin overnight fasting—only water is allowed.
  • Medications: Certain medications (especially antibiotics, prokinetics, and laxatives) must be paused prior to testing—follow the test kit’s included guidelines.
  • Avoid smoking, exercise, or chewing gum before and during the test.
  • Ship samples within 2 days of collection to preserve sample integrity.

Test Logistics

  • Sample Type: Breath samples (collected into tubes using provided materials)
  • Shipping: Test kit ships nationwide
  • Kit Arrival Time: 5–10 business days
  • Lab Processing Time: 21 business days after samples are received
  • Includes: Instructions, substrate solution (e.g., lactulose), and all necessary tubes and packaging