Description
Why It’s Done:
• To diagnose lactose intolerance in individuals who experience symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and gas after consuming dairy products.
• To evaluate for malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency, or small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
• To help identify underlying gastrointestinal infections or intestinal damage that interfere with normal digestion and nutrient absorption.
• To assess symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and failure to thrive in children.
Preparation:
• Sample Collection:
o A stool sample is collected in a clean, dry container. It is important that the sample is fresh to accurately detect reducing substances.
• Dietary Restrictions:
o Avoid any large intake of milk, dairy products, or foods that may interfere with digestion, as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Medications:
o Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as certain medications (e.g., antibiotics or laxatives) can affect digestion and test results.
• Fasting:
o Fasting is generally not required for this test, but be sure to follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider.
