In-person tests
Take the SIBO test at our centre – precisely, comfortably, under specialist care.
What does SIBO diagnostics at the Centre look like?
- 1
Pre-test consultation
We start with a brief phone call. We explain how the breath test works, discuss test preparation together and answer all your questions.
We want you to arrive for the test calm and well prepared.
- 2
Breath test procedure
On the day of the test, please arrive a few minutes early. Our technician will guide you through the entire process, explain each stage and ensure your comfort.
- 3
Results discussion
We do not leave you with the result alone. Immediately after the test, together with a clinical dietitian we discuss the result in detail and explain what each value means — in plain language, without complicated medical jargon.
- 4
Individual action plan
At the end you receive a clear plan of next steps. We advise what to do next, which actions will work best in your situation and which diagnostic or therapeutic options are worth considering. Our goal is not only to perform the test, but also to point you in the right direction.
- 5
We are with you beyond the test
If you need further support, we will help you plan the next stages of diagnostics or arrange a consultation with the appropriate specialist. Your gut health is a process, and we are here to go through it with you.
In-person tests
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Recurring bloating, gas, abdominal pain or irregular bowel habits (diarrhoea and constipation) are symptoms you should not ignore. They may indicate SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) — an excessive proliferation of bacteria in the small intestine.
Why is lactulose the key substrate in a SIBO test?
Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide that is not absorbed in the human small intestine. This makes it an ideal bacterial substrate — if there are too many bacteria in the small intestine, they will ferment lactulose, producing hydrogen (H₂). This gas enters the bloodstream and is then exhaled through the lungs.
Indications
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
- chronic bloating and excessive flatulence,
- abdominal pain and feeling of fullness,
- suspected malabsorption or vitamin deficiencies (e.g. B12, A, D).
Test procedure & result interpretation
The test takes approximately 180 minutes. A baseline breath sample is collected on an empty stomach, then further samples are taken every 20 minutes after drinking the lactulose solution. A rise in hydrogen concentration of at least 20 ppm above baseline within the first 90 minutes is considered a positive result suggesting SIBO.
How to prepare?
- 14 weeks before: Complete antibiotic therapy and refrain from colonoscopy.
- 22 weeks before: Stop probiotics and laxatives.
- 31 week before: Stop PPIs and bactericidal herbs (e.g. oregano, garlic).
- 424–48h before:Strict low-carbohydrate diet. Meat, fish, eggs only.
- 5Day of the test:12-hour fast. Brush teeth before the test. No smoking, no chewing gum.
A preparatory diet for at least 48 hours before the test is required for reliable results. Bookings are non-refundable.
Suffering from recurring bloating, abdominal pain, gas or bowel irregularities (diarrhoea or constipation)? The cause may be SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) or IMO (Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth) — conditions involving an excessive proliferation of bacteria or archaea in the small intestine, leading to digestive and absorption disorders.
Why choose the hydrogen-methane test?
Many centres offer only hydrogen tests, which may be insufficient. Some patients suffer from IMO — an overgrowth of methane-producing archaea, which typically manifests as persistent constipation. The hydrogen-methane breath test simultaneously measures the concentration of both gases in exhaled air, providing a more complete picture of intestinal microbiota.
Indications for SIBO/IMO testing
- Bloating and flatulence,
- abdominal pain and feeling of fullness,
- recurring diarrhoea or constipation,
- nausea,
- confirmed vitamin deficiencies (B12, A, D) or iron deficiency.
How to prepare?
- 14 weeks before: Do not take antibiotics, prokinetics or undergo invasive procedures (e.g. colonoscopy).
- 22 weeks before: Stop probiotics, laxatives and enemas.
- 37 days before: Stop PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) and bactericidal herbs (oregano, garlic).
- 424–48h before:Strict low-carb, low-fibre diet — meat, fish, eggs, white rice.
- 5Day of the test:12-hour fast. No smoking, no chewing gum, no exercise 2h before the test.
A preparatory diet for at least 48 hours before the test is required for reliable results. Bookings are non-refundable.
Digestive problems after drinking milk or eating dairy products are common in adults due to reduced lactase activity. If you suspect lactose intolerance, the hydrogen breath test is the most accurate and non-invasive method to confirm the diagnosis.
Why this test?
The lactulose breath test precisely measures your body's ability to digest milk sugar. The test typically takes 120–180 minutes. A result is considered positive when exhaled hydrogen concentration rises by 20 ppm above the baseline value.
Indications
- Chronic bloating after consuming dairy products,
- diarrhoea and excessive flatulence,
- abdominal rumbling after dairy intake.
How to prepare?
- 14 weeks before: Complete antibiotic therapy and refrain from colonoscopy.
- 22 weeks before: Stop probiotics and laxatives.
- 37 days before: Stop PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) and bactericidal herbs.
- 424h before:Strict dairy-free diet — meat, fish, eggs, white rice.
- 5Day of the test:12-hour fast. Brush teeth. No smoking, no chewing gum.
A preparatory diet for at least 48 hours before the test is required for reliable results. Bookings are non-refundable.
Do you feel unnaturally bloated after eating fruit, honey or sweets? The cause may be fructose intolerance — a disorder of fruit sugar absorption. The hydrogen breath test is recognised as the "gold standard" in diagnosing this condition.
How does the test work?
You consume a solution of 25 g of fructose, then breath samples are measured at regular intervals (every 15–30 minutes). A rise in hydrogen concentration of at least 20 ppm above the baseline value indicates a positive result.
⚠️ Important contraindication: This test must not be performed on individuals suspected of having Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI). The administration of fructose may trigger severe hypoglycaemia in these patients. If you are unsure, please consult your doctor before ordering.
How to prepare?
- 14 weeks before: Complete antibiotic therapy.
- 22 weeks before: Stop probiotics and laxatives.
- 37 days before: Stop PPIs and bactericidal herbs.
- 424–48h before:Strict diet — avoid fruit, fructose, honey and sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol).
- 5Day of the test:12-hour fast. No smoking, no chewing gum.
A preparatory diet for at least 48 hours before the test is required for reliable results. Bookings are non-refundable.
Sorbitol (E420) is a sugar alcohol widely used as a sweetener in chewing gums, "diet" sweets and some medications. In many people it can cause symptoms typical of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The hydrogen sorbitol breath test checks whether this ingredient is responsible for your gastrointestinal complaints.
Test procedure: The test is safe and painless. It involves monitoring hydrogen levels after consuming a dose of sorbitol — the gas is produced when undigested sorbitol ferments in the large intestine.
Symptoms of sorbitol intolerance: If you experience sudden diarrhoea, nausea or severe bloating after consuming "sugar-free" products, it is worth considering this diagnostic test.
How to prepare?
- 14 weeks before: Complete antibiotic therapy and refrain from colonoscopy.
- 22 weeks before: Stop probiotics and laxatives.
- 37 days before: Stop PPIs (proton pump inhibitors).
- 424–48h before:Strict diet — avoid products with sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol, mannitol).
- 5Day of the test:12-hour fast. Brush teeth without sorbitol-containing toothpaste. No smoking, no chewing gum.
A preparatory diet for at least 48 hours before the test is required for reliable results. Bookings are non-refundable.
FAQ – Breath tests
Frequently asked questions about breath tests
Sorbitol intolerance
No. The test is completely non-invasive and involves only collecting samples of exhaled air. After drinking the sorbitol solution, temporary symptoms such as bloating or increased gas may occur.
The test lasts about two hours. Breath samples are taken every 15–30 minutes to assess how sorbitol is digested.
Before the test, follow the recommended diet, fast for at least 12 hours and adhere to instructions regarding medications and supplements.
The price depends on the clinic and city. In private practices it most often ranges from approximately 180 to 400 PLN.
No. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol, whereas stevia and aspartame belong to other groups of sweeteners.
It is found most abundantly in plums, pears, apples and apricots, as well as in chewing gum and products labelled "sugar-free".
Not always, but an appropriate diet and gradual expansion of the menu help effectively reduce symptoms.
The most common symptoms are bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, a feeling of fullness and excessive gas.
Yes, if a doctor considers the test appropriate. The sorbitol dose is adjusted to body weight.
Yes — it is best to choose fruits with lower sorbitol content and monitor individual tolerance.
They usually subside within a few hours.
Yes, especially when the result needs confirmation or symptoms have changed.
Lactose intolerance
No. The test is painless and involves analysing exhaled air after consuming a lactose solution.
About two hours. Samples are taken regularly every 15–30 minutes.
You should fast, follow the recommended diet the day before and adhere to medication instructions.
Most often from approximately 160 to 340 PLN, depending on the clinic.
No. Lactose intolerance results from lactase deficiency, whereas allergy is an immune system reaction.
This is individual. Many people tolerate small amounts of lactose without significant discomfort.
Yes. The test is also safe for children when clinically indicated.
Natural yoghurts and aged cheeses are often better tolerated.
For many people yes — they reduce symptom severity after consuming dairy products.
Drink water, monitor symptoms and avoid further lactose-containing products until symptoms subside.
The decision is made individually by a doctor.
The primary form usually persists for life, whereas the secondary form may resolve after treating the underlying cause.
Tak, jeśli istnieją wskazania diagnostyczne.
A breath test assesses current lactose digestion, whereas a genetic test shows predisposition only.
Yes. Lactase production decreases with age in many people.
Fructose intolerance
No. It is completely non-invasive.
Follow dietary, medication and fasting instructions according to the clinic's guidelines.
Most often from approximately 150 to 450 PLN.
Yes. No recovery period is required.
It begins with restricting fructose, then gradually expands the menu.
Yes. The amount of fructose is adjusted to body weight.
No. They involve different sugars and have different mechanisms.
Yes, if preparation was incorrect or individual microbiota characteristics are present.
The goal is usually symptom control through an appropriately tailored diet.
Yes, if recommended by a doctor or re-assessment is needed.