Sorbitol Intolerance Test

About Sorbitol Intolerance

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol naturally occurring in red algae, as well as in the leaves and fruits of plants. Used both as a texturising agent and sweetener, sorbitol can cause digestive problems for those who don't tolerate it well. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and stomach gas may indicate sorbitol intolerance. If you experience any of these or similar symptoms, GetTested offers a breath test to determine your body's ability to break down sorbitol.

What is Sorbitol?

Sorbitol, a type of sugar alcohol, naturally occurs in fruits such as apples, pears, plums, cherries, rowanberries, peaches, apricots, grapes, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. You can also find sorbitol in canned and dried fruits, along with many diet products. When consumed in high quantities, sorbitol acts as a laxative. The food industry commonly uses sorbitol as a sweetener, thickener, and consistency agent, adding sweetness without adding a lot of calories. Although sorbitol is not energy-free, many people use it as a sugar substitute to reduce their caloric intake. Its common uses include sugar-free or energy-reduced desserts, ice creams, jams, marmalades, confectionery, breakfast cereals, and in ready-made sauces, mustard, and diet products.

Symptoms of Sorbitol Intolerance

Individuals with sorbitol intolerance may experience symptoms following sorbitol consumption. These symptoms can vary in intensity and include:

• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Gas and bloating
• Intestinal sounds
• Diarrhoea with gas

Avoiding certain fruits, processed products, and chewing gum is crucial for those with sorbitol intolerance.

The Cause of Sorbitol Intolerance

Sorbitol intolerance results from a deficiency of the GLUT5 transporter in the gut. This inability to absorb sorbitol leads to its fermentation by colon bacteria, causing various problems. The resultant high levels of free hydrogen in the body can be measured in exhaled air.

Sorbitol intolerance is usually categorized into two types:

Primary Sorbitol Intolerance: Caused by a deficiency of a specific enzyme in the sorbitol transporter GLUT5.

Secondary Sorbitol Intolerance: Develops following intestinal diseases like gastrointestinal catarrh and other inflammatory bowel diseases, including coeliac disease, which temporarily or permanently damage the microvilli in the intestinal mucosa.

How the GetTested Sorbitol Intolerance Test Works

The sorbitol intolerance test by GetTested is a straightforward breath test. Before the test, patients should fast for 8 hours. It's also important to avoid fruits, vegetables, and legumes 24 hours prior to the test as they can slow down intestinal transit time. Additionally, avoid taking laxatives or antibiotics in the days leading up to the test.