SIBO Breath Test (Hydrogen + Methane)

The SIBO Breath Test (Hydrogen + Methane) is a 3-hour at-home breath test designed to detect bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine—an often overlooked cause of chronic gut symptoms. After ingesting a lactulose solution, the test measures exhaled hydrogen (H₂) and methane (CH₄) every 20 minutes to assess abnormal fermentation patterns in the small intestine.

This test is helpful for individuals with persistent GI symptoms that haven’t improved with diet alone. The 3-hour version is particularly recommended for those with slow gut motility or constipation-dominant symptoms.

Why it matters

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is linked to a wide range of issues, including IBS, bloating, fatigue, mood changes, rosacea, brain fog, and nutrient malabsorption.

Identifying the type and severity of SIBO can guide targeted interventions including:

• Antimicrobial therapy (pharmaceutical or herbal)
• Prokinetic support
• Dietary strategies (e.g., low FODMAP, Carnivore)
• Supportive supplementation
  

Symptoms it may relate to

• IBS, IBD, Celiac Disease
• Parkinson’s, Fibromyalgia
• Rosacea, Acne
• Diabetes, Obesity
• Chronic fatigue and autoimmunity
  

What this includes

• 3-hour lactulose-based breath test (8 timed samples)
• Hydrogen and methane gas analysis
  

Every Empower Functional Health functional test order includes:

• A detailed written report with clinical interpretation
• Personalized diet, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations
• 1-hour consult with an EFH practitioner (additional fee)

How it works

• Once you purchase the test, you’ll receive an email with instructions and a test kit will be mailed to your home.
• Breath testing is non-invasive and preferred over invasive sampling of the small intestine. Proper preparation is essential to ensure accurate results.
• Prep carefully. Follow specific prep guidelines for 1 week prior to testing. Avoid antimicrobials, laxatives, probiotics, fiber, and alcohol. Fast for 12 hours before the test.
• Test at home. Drink the lactulose solution and collect breath samples every 20 minutes for 3 hours.
• Ship the samples. Follow the included shipping instructions carefully.
• Results.You’ll receive a personalized analysis and actionable next steps via email.
• For in-depth case management or interpretation, a separate 1-on-1 session is recommended.

Important notes

• Not available in NY, NJ, or RI. Available in the U.S. only.
• Not recommended during an acute illness
• Follow dietary and prep instructions carefully for accurate results
• For most suffering from chronic illness or SIBO, we recommend pairing this panel with the Empower Functional Health Personalized Health Plan (PHP).

**PURCHASER NOTE: To expedite processing, please include date of birth and gender in ‘Order Notes’ at checkout.