Lactose Tolerance Test

lactose tolerance test is one of the common tests used to measure the absorption of lactose in the digestive system. The others are hydrogen breath, and stool acidity tests.

The Lactose Tolerance test requires fasting (not eating) before the test and then drinking a liquid that contains lactose. Several blood samples are then taken over a 2-hour period to measure the person’s blood glucose (blood sugar) level. These measures indicate how well the body is able to digest lactose.

The lactose tolerance test is very simple and you should be able to go back to your usual duties after your blood is drawn.

The other alternatives to the lactose tolerance test are;

• The Hydrogen Breath Test. This test measures the amount of hydrogen in a person’s breath before and after taking lactose loaded beverages, and
• Stool Acidity Test. This test may be used for infants and young children to measure the amount of acid in their stool.

When do you need a Lactose tolerance test?

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest significant amounts of lactose, the major sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance is caused by a shortage of the enzyme lactase, which is produced by the cells that line the small intestine.

Lactase breaks down milk sugar into two simpler forms of sugar called glucose and galactose, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream. Not all people deficient in lactase have the symptoms commonly associated with lactose intolerance, but those who do are said to have lactose intolerance.

If you lack enough lactase, you may have difficulty digesting lactase and you may need to take a lactose intolerance test.

You may have a recurrence of the following symptoms, which range from mild to severe, include nausea, cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Symptoms begin about 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating or drinking foods containing lactose. The severity of symptoms depends on many factors, including the amount of lactose a person can tolerate and a person’s age, ethnicity, and digestion rate.

What are the Risks in a Lactose tolerance test?

The lactose tolerance test is relatively safe to all and one will rarely have any side effects after the procedure. However, if you have any concerns about the procedure, you should inform your doctor who will guide you on the solutions.

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