Prepping for your Hydrogen and Methane breath test? Here are some friendly reminders to achieve the most accurate results and find your way onto recovery from Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth.
- You must fast for 12 hours prior to the test. (Diabetic patients should consult with their provider prior to fasting to ensure this test is safe for them.)
- Plan on doing the test on a morning that you can dedicate four hours to testing.
- Do not insert your finger into the tube sampler — there is a sharp needle.
- Some patients may experience SIBO- related symptoms after drinking the test solution. These symptoms may last for up to 24 hours.
2 weeks before your test – Finish taking any antibiotics or antifungals. Do not undergo colonoscopy or barium enemas during this time (regular home enemas like Fleet are okay.)
7 days before your test – Unless otherwise directed by your provider, please avoid Proton Pump Inhibitors.
4 days before your test – Avoid all laxatives including Vitamin C and Magnesium.
1-2 days before your test – Refrain from all high fiber and lactose-containing foods. These foods can ferment in your gut and potentially cause false results. If you have constipation, please refrain for the full two days.
The following list of food options are acceptable for the preparatory diet.
- Baked or boiled chicken, fish or turkey
- Plain, steamed white rice (If you are on a grain free diet, please do not consume rice)
- Eggs
- Clear meat broth (no bouillon, bone/cartilage or vegetable broth)
- Fats/oils (ie: coconut/olive/vegetable oil, butter, lard)
- Salt and pepper
- Weak black coffee/tea (plain, no sweeteners or cream)