Welcome to the Buffalo Nutrition and Dietetics Hydrogen Breath Testing Clinic! We are a team of experienced and compassionate dietitians who are dedicated to helping our patients achieve their optimal health and well-being.

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What is Hydrogen Breath Testing?

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Hydrogen breath testing is a non-invasive test that can be used to diagnose a variety of digestive conditions, including:

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• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

• Lactose intolerance

• Fructose intolerance

• Sorbitol intolerance

• Sucrose intolerance

• Mannitol intolerance

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How does Hydrogen Breath Testing work?

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The test is performed by having you ingest a small amount of a sugar solution, such as lactose or fructose. Your breath is then sampled at regular intervals over a period of time. If you have a digestive condition, bacteria in your small intestine will ferment the sugar, producing hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas will then be absorbed into your bloodstream and released in your breath.

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Benefits of Hydrogen Breath Testing

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Hydrogen breath testing is a safe, painless, and accurate way to diagnose a variety of digestive conditions. It is also a non-invasive test, meaning that there is no need for needles or surgery.

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Why choose Buffalo Nutrition and Dietetics for Hydrogen Breath Testing?

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At Buffalo Nutrition and Dietetics, we understand that digestive problems can be debilitating and frustrating, especially when access to testing is limited in the community. That's why we offer hydrogen breath testing to help our patients get the answers they need to start feeling better. Our experienced dietitians will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your digestive condition and improve your overall health and well-being.

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While we do offer read-only (non-consult) testing, we definitely encourage you to meet with one of our experienced dietitians to discuss your result and a treatment plan.

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Why should I schedule a consult with an RDN to discuss my SIBO result?

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SIBO treatment is a two-phase process that must be managed by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) for optimal results.

 

Phase 1: Identifying the Underlying Cause

 

Phase 1 of SIBO treatment is often overlooked and involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the overgrowth. This is often a dietary or lifestyle factor, such as:

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• Diet (e.g., high-FODMAP diet, low-fiber diet, excessive sugar intake)

• Stress

• Food sensitivities

• Constipation

• Medication use

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If these underlying causes are not addressed before moving on to Phase 2, the SIBO infection is likely to return and/or become resistant to antibiotic treatment.

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Phase 2: Eradicating the Overgrowth

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Once the underlying cause of SIBO has been addressed, Phase 2 of treatment involves eradicating the overgrowth of bacteria. This is typically done with antibiotics, but other treatments, such as herbal antimicrobials, may also be used. We have first hand practice exerience and data from Cleveland Clinic showing herbals to be as effective as traditional antibiotic, and less costly than the gold standard antibiotic Xyfaxin. 

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An RDN can play a vital role in both phases of SIBO treatment. RDNs can help you:

• Identify and address the underlying cause of SIBO through dietary and lifestyle changes

• Develop a personalized SIBO meal plan

• Choose the right antibiotic or herbal antimicrobial treatment for your individual needs

• Monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed

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Is the test covered by my insurance? 

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Depending on the insurance plan, testing may be covered by insurance with a $50 copay for patients and a $75 copay for non-patients. If the testing is not covered, we offer a flexible payment plan of $56.25 x4 months.

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If you are suffering from IBS and other digestive symptoms, contact Buffalo Nutrition and Dietetics today to schedule an appointment and further testing at our clinic at (716) 704-0684.

 

We look forward to helping you on your journey to better health!