Are there medical tests that can determine whether my toddler is lactose intolerant?
Yes: The Hydrogen Breath Test (HBT) The Blood Glucose Test (BGT) The Ethanol Test LI Tests The Hydrogen Breath Test (HBT) The HBT is the best around, simple, direct, and non-invasive (meaning no needles). It works because your breath normally never contains hydrogen gas. You find it there only when the bacteria in your colon ferment carbohydrates, exactly what happens when a load of undigested lactose hits. Testing is typically done first thing in the morning after a 12-hour fast. You’ll likely be asked to blow into a small mouthpiece connected to a laminated foil bag that resembles a pillow-shaped mylar balloon (although several variations may be found). That first bag is set aside to be used as a baseline. You then drink a solution of lactose in water, although some doctors use milk itself. The amount of lactose may range from 10 to 50 grams: The larger amounts will identify a greater number of people as LI but will also cause more symptoms in those who are sensitive. (Be prepared. Y
