Methods for diagnosing lactose intolerance
When it comes to diagnosing lactose intolerance, there are several tests that your doctor may recommend. These tests can help determine if you are lactose intolerant and what type of lactose intolerance you have.
Lactose tolerance test: This test involves drinking a specific amount of lactose fluid and then having your blood tested two hours later. The results of the blood test will indicate whether the amount of glucose in your blood is rising or not. If it doesn’t rise, it suggests that your body is not digesting lactose normally.
Hydrogen breath test: This test measures the amount of hydrogen in your breath after consuming lactose fluid. If your body is unable to digest lactose, it releases hydrogen and other gases that can be detected through this test.
Stool acidity test: Typically administered to children or infants, this test involves analyzing a stool sample for the presence of lactic acid and other types of acid. The presence of these acids suggests that undigested lactose is fermenting in the body.
Consulting with your doctor for lactose intolerance
When it comes to lactose intolerance, your doctor is the best person to seek advice from. The Mayo Clinic strongly recommends consulting with your doctor if you suspect you may be suffering from lactose intolerance. By doing so, your doctor can help eliminate any other potential causes for your symptoms. Through a series of tests, your doctor will be able to determine the presence and severity of lactose intolerance.
In some cases, your doctor may also refer you to a registered dietitian. This expert can provide you with valuable information on which foods to include in your diet, which ones to avoid, and how to maintain an adequate level of calcium in your body.
It’s important to note that lactose intolerance may be a lifelong condition. Therefore, it is essential to discuss with your doctor how it may interact with any other existing medical conditions you may have and how to effectively manage them together.