SIBO Test in Toronto
Find the root cause of bloating, gas, and IBS symptoms
Persistent bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, or “IBS” symptoms are often linked to Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) – a condition where bacteria accumulate in the small intestine and disrupt digestion.
A SIBO breath test is a simple, non-invasive way to determine whether bacterial overgrowth is contributing to your symptoms.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Makoto Trotter, ND provides comprehensive SIBO testing and personalized SIBO treatment plans serving patients in North York, Toronto, and the GTA, helping you resolve chronic digestive symptoms at the root.
Book a free 15-minute consultation to see if SIBO testing is right for you
What is a SIBO Test?
A SIBO test is a non-invasive breath test that measures hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in the small intestine. Elevated levels indicate bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which can contribute to symptoms like bloating, gas, and IBS.
Symptoms of SIBO
You may benefit from SIBO testing if you experience:
- Bloating (especially after meals)
- Excess gas or belching
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating IBS symptoms (read about natural IBS treatment)
- Brain fog or fatigue after eating
- Food sensitivities (especially carbohydrates)
Many patients are diagnosed with IBS when the underlying issue is actually SIBO.
Who Should Consider SIBO Testing?
SIBO testing may be appropriate if:
- You’ve been diagnosed with IBS but treatments haven’t worked
- Your bloating worsens throughout the day
- You react poorly to carbohydrates or fiber
- You’ve taken frequent antibiotics
- You experience ongoing digestive symptoms without a clear diagnosis
How a SIBO Breath Test Works
A SIBO breath test measures hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in the small intestine.
After consuming a test solution (glucose or lactulose), breath samples are collected over ~2 hours.
Elevated gas levels indicate bacterial overgrowth and help determine:
- Whether SIBO is present
- The type (hydrogen vs methane)
- Where it may be occurring in the small intestine
The test is completed at home and is easy to follow with provided instructions.
View a sample test report.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Makoto Trotter for SIBO Testing
- 20+ years of clinical experience
- Focus on root-cause digestive health
- Experience with complex and chronic cases
- Personalized interpretation of results (not just lab data)
- Published author of a book about Leaky Gut (intestinal permeability)
- Integrated treatment approach for long-term results
What Happens After a Positive SIBO Test?
If your test is positive, treatment is tailored to your specific presentation.
may include:
- Herbal or targeted antimicrobial therapy
- Dietary strategies to reduce fermentation
- Support for gut motility and digestion
- Nervous system and stress regulation
- Addressing underlying causes to prevent recurrence
SIBO is rarely a simple condition – a personalized, multi-layered approach is key to long-term success.
Read about SIBO treatment in Toronto
Book a consultation to discuss testing or review your results (if testing is completed) to create a treatment plan.
FAQs About SIBO Testing
How long does a SIBO test take?
Approximately 2 – 3 hours.
Is the SIBO test done at home?
Yes, the test is completed at home using a provided kit.
Do I need a referral for SIBO testing?
No, but guidance from a practitioner helps ensure accurate interpretation and treatment.
Fructose Malabsorption Testing
Fructose malabsorption can cause symptoms similar to SIBO, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
If your SIBO test is negative but symptoms persist, fructose testing may be recommended.
This test is performed using a similar breath test method.
👉 Not sure if this is SIBO? Book your free 15-minute consultation to find out.
How do I prepare for a SIBO test?
With a SIBO test, there is a 24 hour preparation period:
- For the first 12 hours, you will need to avoid all grains, fruit in all its forms, sugar in all its forms, dairy in all its forms, vegetables, nuts and seeds, alcohol and beans.
- For the last 12 hours, you will need to fast, not eating or drinking anything except for water.
If you do not prepare properly, the test results may not be accurate and you may need to repeat it.
See full instructions for the SIBO-Lactulose test.
See full instructions for the SIBO-Glucose test.
You can watch a video on how to collect your breath samples.
SIBO Test Options & Pricing
SIBO and fructose breath testing options include:
- Individual tests (glucose, lactulose, or fructose)
- Combination SIBO tests (glucose + lactulose)
- Comprehensive testing (glucose + lactulose + fructose)
Results are typically available within approximately 2 weeks.
Consult with our Naturopathic Doctor, Dr. Makoto Trotter, experienced in treating patients with SIBO. He can discuss if the SIBO test is appropriate for you and guide you with subsequent treatment.