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Preparation for the Lactulose Breath test

Two Weeks Before Collection

  • Stop taking any antibiotics or antifungals (except those who are re-testing following Elemental Diet)

  • DO NOT undergo colonoscopy, colonics or barium enemas during this time.

  • DO NOT perform within 2 weeks of atypical diarrhea. If you have questions, please consult with provider.

4 Days Before Collection

  • Avoid all Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) such as Omeprazole, Protonix, Nexium, Prevacid, and Prilosec

  • Avoid all laxatives. This includes (high dose) vitamin C and magnesium that is being taken specifically to induce a laxative effect.

24-48 Hours Before Collection

  • Avoid all non-essential medications and supplements including probiotics. If you have questions about what may be non-essential vs essential, consult with your provider.

The following list of foods are the ALLOWED foods for the preparatory diet:

  • Any meat, fish/seafood, poultry, or eggs

  • Plain, steamed white rice

  • Clear meat broth (no bullion, bone/cartilage broth, or vegetable broth)

  • Fats/oils (eg. Coconut/olive oil/vegetable oil, butter or lard)

  • Salt and pepper

  • Weak black coffee and/or weak black tea (plan, no sweeteners or cream)

  • Plain water, no mineral waters

Morning of Collection (after overnight fast)

  • Wake up at least 1 hour prior to beginning the collection. You may brush your teeth as normal

  • DO NOT eat, smoke, or exercise prior or during collection.

  • It’s okay to drink plain water during and before performing breath test

  • Read the instructions provided in the kit, label tubes and collect samples every 20 minutes

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