Beyond Breath Testing: Using the GI-MAP to Uncover Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgroth

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) indicates abnormal concentrations of bacterial in the small intestine. Although the classic definition of SIBO refers to the overgrowth of commensal organisms, opportunistic, and pathogenic organisms are often involved. SIBO is one of the most common issues reported by all of our patients undergoing cancer treatments.

The current diagnostic standard for SIBO within the functional medicine community is a three-hour lactulose breath test. This test is useful in identifying dysfunctional gas production in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Beyond gas production, however, the lactulose breath test does not provide a complete assessment of GI function and other infections.

Signs and symptoms of SIBO often include:

Loss of appetite.
Abdominal pain.
Nausea.
Bloating.
An uncomfortable feeling of fullness after eating.
Diarrhea.
Unintentional weight loss.
Malnutrition.

Evidence has shown that in order to reduce SIBO-related symptoms, it is important to carry out a deeper assessment of the gastrointestinal health of our patients. Ask us for a comprehensive gastro-intestinal functional test. It is accurate and easy to do.

References

Dukowicz, A. C., Lacy, B. E., & Levine, G. M. (2007). Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: a comprehensive review. Gastroenterology & hepatology, 3(2), 112.

DuPont, A. W., & DuPont, H. L. (2011). The intestinal microbiota and chronic disorders of the gut. Nature reviews Gastroenterology & hepatology, 8(9), 523-531.