Your SIBO Breath Test Guide

So you think you may have SIBO, and your doctor has prescribed a SIBO test for you to complete. The prep diet before the test is extremely important, so I’ll share some tips, tricks and a clear-cut food list for you to reference!

How long do I have to do the prep diet?

Follow your doctor’s instructions. Often times they’ll suggest the following:

• If you’re constipated, and not eliminating fully every day in the few days prior to your test, you’ll want to do this diet for 48 hours prior to testing.

• If you’re able to fully evacuate your bowels each day, do this diet for 24 hours prior to performing your SIBO Breath Test.

What do I need to stop taking before I do the test, and for how long?
Probiotics, prebiotics, kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, magnesium, and herbal supplements for 2 weeks prior.

If you are taking PPIs like Omeprazole or any other medications that you cannot stop taking prior to the test, please include a note in the box with your test tubes that includes the info below:

What medication it is: 
What it's for: 
Time you last took the medication: 

What foods can I eat on the diet?

These foods are the ONLY foods you can consume* prior to your test:

*If you are vegetarian, stick to rice!

• Uncured/Unbrined Red meat, poultry, fish, and seafood

• Eggs, cooked any way

• Plain, steamed white rice

• Clear meat broth made only from the meat (NOTE: no bone/cartilage or vegetables used)

• Fats/oils: coconut/olive/vegetable oils, butter, or ghee

• Salt and Pepper (no other herbs/spices)

• Weak, black coffee and/or weak black tea (slightly diluted is preferred, with no cream, sugar, or sweeteners) NOTE: NO herbal teas or green teas

• Plain water: no mineral water, sparkling water, or water with additives of any kind. Check labels.

What other tips would be helpful for me to know?

• Watch SIBO center’s videos for questions about the diet, prep, and performing the test

• Set a timer for every 20 minutes to breath into the next tube so you’re not delayed on any of the testing tubes

• Pre-write the sticker labels with your name and date so all you have to add after filling each tube is add the time

• Because you have to fast, it’s easiest to perform this test first thing in the morning, and allot 3 hours to complete the at-home test