Bacterial Overgrowth of the Small Intestine Breath Test-Genova This test checks for overgrowth in the small intestine. This common condition often underlies chronic symptoms of maldigestion and malabsorption, including bloating, gas, diarrhea, irregularity, and abdominal pain. Successful eradication of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine has been shown to reduce bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in patients more effectively than many other treatments for IBS. Bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine is a digestive disorder that can inhibit nutrient absorption and lead to many health problems. It is frequently unsuspected in cases of chronic bowel problems and carbohydrate intolerance because its symptoms often mimic other disorders. People who have unexplained abdominal symptoms, cannot tolerate sweet or starchy foods, fiber, or friendly flora supplements can benefit from doing this test. nrs/2007 -eb