Digestive health is one of the most important indicators of overall well-being, especially in infants, young children, and individuals experiencing chronic gastrointestinal issues. Among the diagnostic tools used for assessing digestion and carbohydrate absorption, the pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test is widely recommended by doctors. This test helps identify problems such as lactose intolerance, malabsorption, infections, and enzyme deficiencies.
At Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory, one of Pakistan’s most reputable diagnostic facilities, this test is conducted using advanced biochemical methods to ensure accurate and reliable results. Whether your doctor suspects sugar malabsorption, chronic diarrhea, or digestive enzyme problems, this stool test provides essential insights without any invasive procedures.
This detailed guide covers everything you need to know, including test cost, importance, preparation, normal values, abnormal interpretations, booking options, and related tests available at Ibn-E-Sina Laboratory.
What is the pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test?
The pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test evaluates two important stool parameters:
Stool pH Level
This measures how acidic or alkaline the stool is.
Low stool pH typically indicates undigested carbohydrates or sugar malabsorption.
Reducing Substances
Reducing substances include unabsorbed sugars such as:
- Lactose
- Fructose
- Glucose
- Galactose
- Maltose
When these sugars appear in stool, it means the digestive system is unable to break them down properly.
Why doctors recommend this test:
- Suspected lactose intolerance
- Chronic diarrhea, especially in infants
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Enzyme deficiencies (like lactase deficiency)
- Abdominal discomfort, bloating, or gas
- Screening for carbohydrate digestion issues
This test is especially valuable in pediatrics, as infants often struggle with lactose digestion.
Why is the Test Important?
The pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test plays a crucial role in understanding digestive function. When carbohydrates are not properly absorbed, they ferment in the intestines, resulting in:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Acidosis (acidic stool)
The test helps identify:
- Lactose intolerance
- Sugar malabsorption
- Short bowel syndrome
- Post-infectious malabsorption
- Celiac disease
- Pancreatic enzyme issues
Understanding stool pH and reducing substances helps doctors diagnose the root cause quickly and guide appropriate treatment.
When Should You Get This Test?
Doctors normally recommend this test when symptoms suggest carbohydrate digestion issues.
Symptoms in Infants & Children:
- Repeated loose motions
- Diarrhea after feeding milk
- Severe diaper rash
- Frothy or acidic-smelling stool
- Gas and bloating
- Inability to gain weight
Symptoms in Adults:
- Diarrhea after consuming dairy
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating
- Chronic digestive discomfort
- Suspected lactose intolerance
If your symptoms worsen after dairy or sugary foods, this test can help identify the cause.
How to Prepare for the Test?
The test is simple, a nd preparation is minimal:
No fasting required
Eat normally unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Avoid certain medications
If recommended by your doctor, avoid:
- Antibiotics
- Antacids
- Anti-diarrheal medications
Avoid contamination
Stool should NOT come in contact with:
- Urine
- Water
- Baby wipes
- Diaper gel
For infants
Use a sterile stool collection bag or clean diaper technique as advised.
Deliver the sample quickly
The sample should ideally be submitted within 1-2 hours of collection for best accuracy.
How is the Test Performed at Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory?
Ibn-E-Sina Laboratory follows a standardized, hygienic, and efficient process:
- You receive a sterile stool container from the lab.
- A fresh stool sample is collected.
- The sample is submitted to the lab promptly.
- Technologists test the sample using:
- pH indicator methods
- Chemical reactions for reducing sugars
- Results are verified by qualified laboratory professionals.
- The final report is generated and uploaded digitally.
The entire testing system is designed for high accuracy and reliability.
pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Report & Normal Values
This section helps you understand what your stool test report means, including stool pH and reducing substances levels, and how they relate to digestive health.
| Parameter | Normal Value |
| Stool pH | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Reducing Substances | Negative (<0.25 g/dL) |
Report Interpretation
Low Stool pH (<5.5)
Likely causes:
- Carbohydrate malabsorption
- Lactose intolerance
- Viral gastroenteritis
- Intestinal fermentation
Presence of Reducing Substances
Indicates:
- Lactase deficiency
- Undigested sugars
- Celiac disease
- Post-infection malabsorption
Always review your results with a qualified doctor for a final diagnosis.
Understanding Abnormal Results
Abnormal results may suggest:
Low Stool pH Causes
- Cow’s milk protein intolerance
- Lactose intolerance
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Infections
- Short bowel syndrome
Positive Reducing Substances Causes
- Congenital sugar malabsorption
- Enzyme deficiency
- Post-infectious digestive changes
- Celiac disease
- Bacterial overgrowth
Your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as:
- Stool culture
- Lactose tolerance test
- Celiac screening
- Hydrogen breath test
Improve Digestive Health Naturally
For Infants
- Use low-lactose or lactose-free formulas (doctor-recommended)
- Monitor feeding intervals
For Older Children & Adults
- Reduce dairy if lactose-intolerant.
- Increase probiotics (yogurt, kefir)
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid high-sugar foods
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Add fiber slowly to balance stool acidity
These lifestyle steps support digestion but do not replace medical treatment.
Test Cost at Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory
The pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test cost at Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory is Rs. 500. This affordable test helps assess digestive health accurately and is widely recommended for both children and adults.
You can book it online or visit the nearest branch directly.
Ibn-E-Sina pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test Price in Pakistan
The Ibn-E-Sina pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test Price in Pakistan is Rs. 500. Whether you search:
- “pH & Reducing Substances test near me.”
- “Stool pH test cost in Pakistan 2026”
- “Ibn-E-Sina stool test charges”
You’ll find consistent pricing nationwide.
Additional Related Stool Test – Added as You Requested
Below is the related stool test you asked to add before the Where to Book section:
Related Stool Test Price Table
| Test Name | Lab Name | Test Type | Price (Rs.) |
| STOOL pH | Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory | Stool Test | 200 |
| pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) | Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory | Stool Test | 500 |
The STOOL pH Test at Ibn-E-Sina costs Rs. 200 and is often performed alongside the reducing substances test to evaluate digestive acidity and sugar fermentation.
Where to Book pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test in Pakistan
If you’re searching for “pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test near me”, you can conveniently compare stool test prices, view updated Ibn-E-Sina test charges 2026, and choose the nearest branch through All Lab Tests.
The platform also helps you find home sample collection options where available.
Book Your Test at Ibn-E-Sina Clinical Laboratory
Book your pH & Reducing Substances (Stool) Test today through All Lab Tests and get accurate, trusted results from Ibn-E-Sina Laboratory.
Enjoy:
- Easy online booking
- Affordable test cost
- Fast reporting
- Experienced staff
- Reliable diagnostic accuracy
Taking timely action can improve diagnosis and treatment. Book now for a complete digestive analysis and peace of mind.
