Testing For Lactose Intolerance

Lactose Tolerance Test


A Lactose Tolerance Test is a test that measures the ability of your intestines to digest lactose. A naturally occurring enzyme called Lactase is needed for proper metabolism of Lactose (the sugar in milk and dairy products). An intolerance of lactose may cause excess gas, diarrhea, bloating and stomach aches. These symptoms, in turn, can lead to a poor diet and undernourishment. Furthermore, even with a great diet, diarrhea can prevent the body from having a chance to absorb needed nutrients, leading to undernutrition, malnutrition, fatigue and/or general malaise.

According to the University of Maryland many types of birth controll pills and non-dairy coffee creamers also contain lactose. Lactose intolerance can be very uncomfortable but yet is very easily treated. Awareness is the first step. Working with your physician through trail and error, you can determine what amount and type of lactose-containing products you can tolerate.

To purchase a Lactose Tolerance test simply order online at LabSafe at http://www.labsafe.com/lab-tests/test/464/ or visit our website at http://www.labsafe.com/

For more information, or to speak with a member of our professional Medical Staff, call LabSafe toll free at 1-888-333-LABS.

Homocysteine Blood Testing

HOMOCYSTEINE TESTING


Homocysteine is an amino acid. Homocysteine is increasingly being recognized as an important risk factor for a number of common medical conditions. Elevated levels of homocysteine have been linked to increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Osteoporosis, and Diabetes. According to WHO (World Health Organization) estimates, each year 16.7 million people die globally from cardiovascular disease. Those with dangerously high homocysteine levels increase their risk of a heart attack by 50%. Early identification of high homocysteine levels is important. A simple homocysteine blood test could save your life.

Traditional risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) can only explain approximately two thirds of observed clinical events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Homocysteine is not a traditional risk factor but has been strongly implicated in CAD and is thought to play a significant role in the development of CAD. Epidemiological studies over the past 30 years have shown that increased concentrations of homocysteine are associated with vascular disease, including cardiovascular disease and peripheral arteriovascular disease. This link is independent of other risk factors, is consistent across many studies, and is strongly related to the concentration of homocysteine in the blood. That is, the higher the homocysteine level, the greater the risk of CAD.

Homocysteine promotes injury to the walls of blood vessels by oxidants, thus contributing to the hardening of arteries and other blood vessels. Studies have shown that blood homocysteine levels can be reduced by dietary supplements of folic acid and B vitamins. Taking antioxidants has shown to be beneficial, and it is theorized that antioxidants may diminish homocysteine induced oxidant damage.

To purchase a Homocysteine test simply order online at LabSafe at http://www.labsafe.com/lab-tests/test/438/ or visit our website at www.labsafe.com

For more information, or to speak with a member of our professional Medical Staff, call LabSafe toll free at 1-888-333-LABS.