Ordering the Leaky Gut Test | Lactulose/Mannitol | Canada
The Leaky Gut Test | Lactulose/Mannitol | Canada helps measure how well your small intestine absorbs nutrients and keeps out unwanted particles. This test is often used when someone has ongoing digestive problems, unexplained skin issues, or symptoms that may be linked to food sensitivities or autoimmune conditions. Interestingly, the test uses two sugars—lactulose and mannitol—to check how much passes through your gut wall, which can show if your intestinal barrier is working as it should.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Find out if your gut lining is letting larger particles through, which may cause inflammation or immune reactions.
- Check if your body is absorbing nutrients properly, which can affect energy and digestion.
- Track changes in gut function over time, especially if you are making diet or lifestyle changes.
- Identify possible links between gut issues and symptoms like brain fog, skin rashes, or joint pain.
- Get specific information to guide your doctor in choosing the right treatment or next steps.
Who Should Consider Intestinal Permeability and Absorption Testing
People who have frequent bloating, stomach pain, or loose stools after eating may benefit from this test, especially if they have tried changing their diet without much improvement. For example, someone who has been dealing with eczema and digestive discomfort for months, despite avoiding common trigger foods, might find this test helpful in finding the root cause.
Ordering this test may also be useful in these situations:
- Someone with long-term fatigue and unexplained nutrient deficiencies.
- A person with autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis who wants to monitor gut changes.
- Anyone with ongoing skin problems, such as eczema or unexplained rashes, that do not respond to usual treatments.
- People who have frequent headaches or brain fog that seem to be linked to meals.
- Someone who has recently taken antibiotics and now has new digestive symptoms, as this can sometimes affect gut barrier function.
This test can help you find out if your gut is letting in things it shouldn’t, which can lead to inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, or ongoing symptoms. Delaying this test could mean missing the chance to address gut issues early, which may make it harder to manage symptoms or prevent further problems. To get clear answers about your gut function, consider ordering this test.
Preparing for Gut Barrier and Absorption Assessment
Fasting is required for at least 8 hours before collecting your first urine sample for this test. Make sure to carefully follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you, as these steps help ensure your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Leaky Gut Test | Lactulose/Mannitol | Canada
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Leaky Gut Test | Lactulose/Mannitol | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lactulose (Urine) | <0.3 | Lactulose is a large sugar molecule that should not pass easily through the gut wall. High levels in urine show increased gut permeability. |
High levels mean the gut lining is more open than normal, allowing larger molecules to pass through.
Low levels mean the gut barrier is working well and not letting large molecules through. |
| Mannitol (Urine) | 0.5–2.0 | Mannitol is a small sugar molecule that is easily absorbed by a healthy gut. It helps show how well the intestine absorbs nutrients. |
High levels mean the gut is absorbing small molecules well.
Low levels mean there may be poor absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. |
| Lactulose/Mannitol Ratio | <0.07 | This ratio compares how much lactulose and mannitol pass through the gut wall. A higher ratio suggests increased gut permeability, while a lower ratio suggests normal barrier function. |
High levels mean the gut wall is more open, which can let unwanted particles into the body.
Low levels mean the gut barrier is likely working as it should. |
| Creatinine (Urine) | 0.5–2.0 | Creatinine is measured to check if the urine sample is concentrated enough for accurate results. It helps make sure the test is valid. |
High levels mean the urine is very concentrated, which may affect test results.
Low levels mean the urine is very diluted, which can also affect the accuracy of the test. |
| Total Urine Volume | Varies by age and hydration | Total urine volume is measured to help calculate the amount of sugars excreted. This ensures the test results are accurate and meaningful. |
High levels mean a large amount of urine was collected, which may dilute the sugars.
Low levels mean a small amount of urine was collected, which may concentrate the sugars. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
Leaky Gut Test | Lactulose/Mannitol | Canada FAQ
Is there Leaky Gut Test | Lactulose/Mannitol | Canada testing near me?
This is a home test kit that you can collect locally, making it easier for those with ongoing digestive symptoms to get tested without needing to travel to a lab. For more information on where to collect your sample, check the draw location link at the top of the page.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, though draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if gut issues are causing symptoms like bloating or nutrient problems, so you can start improving sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3 to 6 months, especially if you are making changes to your diet or treatment plan, so you can track improvements in gut barrier function and absorption.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses a dual-sugar absorption method, measuring lactulose and mannitol in urine to assess gut permeability and absorption. The test has a specificity of 93% and a sensitivity of 88%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- This kit can be mailed and collected in Canada. You will be responsible for the shipping costs.
- This kit is not intended for those with kidney dysfunction.
- Do not run the test if you have allergies to Mannitol or Lactulose.
- Certain medications such as aspirin, other anti-inflammatory drugs, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium hydroxide (eg, Maalox liquid, Equate, Milk of Magnesia, Rolaids, Mylanta) as well as drugs that contain sorbitol and/or mannitol may affect your test results. Please consult with your healthcare professional know about any medications or supplements you are using before taking this test. It is recommended that you avoid the use of these medicines for at least 72 hours before taking this test.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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