SIBO Testing: Genova Diagnostics & Trio-Smart™ Breath Tests in Michigan

What Is a SIBO Test?

A SIBO breath test is a simple, non-invasive way to detect bacterial overgrowth. You drink a sugar solution (usually glucose or lactulose), and then breathe into collection tubes over a few hours. The test measures gases (hydrogen, methane, and sometimes hydrogen sulfide) released by bacteria when they ferment the sugar. Elevated gas levels indicate overgrowth.

There are two main testing options:

• Glucose test – detects SIBO in the upper intestine.
  
• Lactulose test – measures the whole small intestine and is often preferred for a broader view.

Genova Diagnostics SIBO Test

The Genova Diagnostics SIBO Profile is a trusted at-home test that measures hydrogen and methane gases. You collect breath samples every 20 minutes for up to three hours after drinking the test solution.  

Results show whether bacterial overgrowth is present and how severe it is. Genova’s test is widely used in functional medicine for its accuracy and clinical reliability.

Trio-Smart™ SIBO Test

The Trio-Smart™ test by Gemelli Biotech measures three gases: hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen sulfide. It’s currently the only test that includes hydrogen sulfide detection, which can uncover cases missed by older methods. 

Hydrogen sulfide overgrowth can cause diarrhea and fatigue, while methane often causes constipation. Trio-Smart helps identify these differences, so your treatment can be more targeted.

How to Prepare for a SIBO Test

Proper preparation ensures accurate results:

• 2 days before: Eat a low-fiber, low-fermentation diet (plain meat, rice, eggs, cooked vegetables).
• 12 hours before: Fast overnight — water is fine.
• Avoid before testing: Antibiotics (2–4 weeks), probiotics (1 week), and laxatives unless directed otherwise.
• On test day: Don’t smoke, chew gum, or exercise.

Your provider will give detailed prep instructions specific to the test kit you choose.

What the Test Might Help Identify

A SIBO breath test can reveal:

• Hydrogen-dominant SIBO → often causes diarrhea and bloating
  
• Methane-dominant SIBO → linked to constipation and sluggish digestion
  
• Hydrogen sulfide–dominant SIBO → can cause fatigue, brain fog, and smelly gas
  It may also point toward deeper gut imbalances, food sensitivities, or related issues in your microbiome. Identifying these helps your provider create a precise treatment plan tailored to your body.
  

Benefits of SIBO Testing

• Non-invasive & convenient: You can do it at home using a Genova or Trio-Smart kit.
  
• Identifies the cause of symptoms: Helps explain bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and fatigue.
  
• Personalized treatment: Knowing your SIBO type (hydrogen, methane, or hydrogen sulfide) allows for targeted therapies.
  
• Guides long-term healing: Results can direct changes in diet, supplements, and lifestyle to support gut repair.
  

Limitations of SIBO Testing

• False negatives: Older tests may miss certain gas types (like hydrogen sulfide).
  
• Preparation-sensitive: Eating the wrong foods or using certain medications can affect results.
• Symptom overlap: Other conditions (like IBS or celiac disease) can cause similar symptoms, so testing should always be interpreted by a qualified clinician.

How Integrative Wellness Centers Can Help with SIBO Testing

At Integrative Wellness Centers, we offer comprehensive SIBO testing. Our functional medicine practitioners start by reviewing your health history and symptoms to determine which test best fits your needs. We then guide you through every step from preparation to sample collection ensuring accuracy and comfort throughout the process.

Once your results are ready, our team helps you understand them in simple terms and creates a personalized care plan to address the root cause of your gut imbalance. Whether your goal is to restore digestion, support hormonal balance, or strengthen immunity, we’ll help you achieve lasting wellness and feel your best from the inside out.

Read to take your test? Schedule a consultation with us now!

Frequently Asked Questions About SIBO Testing

1. What causes SIBO?
Poor gut motility, food poisoning, stress, or other digestive conditions can cause bacteria to overgrow in the small intestine.

‍2. Can I test for SIBO at home?
Yes — both Genova and Trio-Smart offer reliable at-home kits.

‍3. How long does the test take?
Usually 2–3 hours of breath collection, with results in about one week.

‍4. Is the test covered by insurance?
It depends on your provider, but most clinics offer affordable self-pay options.

‍5. How is SIBO treated?
Treatment may involve dietary changes, antibiotics like rifaximin, herbal antimicrobials, and motility support.

‍6. What if my test is negative but I still have symptoms?
You might need a different test type (like Trio-Smart for hydrogen sulfide) or a follow-up evaluation.

‍7. What’s the difference between hydrogen and methane SIBO?
Hydrogen SIBO often causes diarrhea; methane SIBO is linked to constipation.

‍8. How soon can I retest after treatment?
Most people wait 2–4 weeks before repeating the breath test.

‍9. Do I need to stop probiotics before testing?
Yes, typically for 1 week — but confirm with your provider.

‍10. What happens after testing?
Your clinician will create a personalized treatment plan based on your results and overall health.