As many sufferers know, gut health symptoms include bloating, cramps, flatulence and diarrhea. Yet the problem for many lies in confirming a specific diagnosis, leaving sufferers unable to make an appropriate and informed change to their diet and lifestyle that would help to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.
There are currently a wide range of diagnostics tests used by gastrointestinal consultants, including blood tests, stool samples, imaging and endoscopic procedures, these procedures can require a large amount of preparation, are invasive, and expensive.
What is a Gut Health Breath Test?
Gut health breath tests are one of the diagnostic tools available, including a test that detects hydrogen and methane, also known as a Hydrogen Methane Breath Test (HMBT). This allows patients to have a completely non-invasive diagnosis that does not leave them in pain or uncomfortable.
How does a gut health breath test work?
Within our guts, bacteria in the small intestine produce hydrogen and methane when digesting sugars. These gases are then transferred into the bloodstream and transported to the lungs, before being exhaled via breath. However, sometimes there can be too much bacteria in our small intestine, leading to an elevated level of hydrogen being detected in the breath, this is known as small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). High methane levels indicate intestinal methanogen overgrowth IMO (formerly known as methane SIBO).
THE SCIENCE BEHIND WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Methane is not used within a SIBO diagnosis but its presence in the breath can indicate an imbalance of bacteria in the gut microbiome. Breath methane is found in 30-50% of the healthy adult population and high levels can be accompanied by symptoms such as constipation and bloating, as well as obesity and reduced weight-loss following bariatric surgery. When checking your gut health with the breath test and the results indicate an elevated level of methane, the referring healthcare professional will recommend treatment options such as antibiotics, pre and probiotics and a low Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Monosaccharides and Polyols (FODMAP) diet.
Can I test with OMED Health?
Yes! The OMED Health Breath Analyzer is the only handheld device able to aid in the diagnosis of hydrogen and methane-dominant SIBO. Taking the test is simple. Following the instructions on your OMED Health App you will need to drink a solution made up of either glucose or lactulose, both non-digestible sugars, mixed with water. Breath samples are then taken every 15 minutes post ingestion for just over two hours. After each sample, use the app to note down any symptoms you have during this time.
After completion, a clinician will investigate the results alongside any symptoms that were also recorded before producing a report. The report will be sent out, after which an OMED Health Doctor will explain recommended next steps in a follow-up consultation. Get the full gut health solution with OMED Health Plans.
Gastrointestinal disorders affect 20% of the world population. If you’re suffering, it’s important to reach out to your doctor for advice. Get tested to rule out common causes and get relief from symptoms with OMED Health.
