**This is metabolised by colonic bacteria are responsible for producing acids, thereby decreasing the pH in the colon. Ammonia is converted into ammonium ions which cannot be absorbed and is therefore lost in the faeces. Lactulose also causes water to be drawn into the colonic lumen, causing diarrhoea, thereby more faeces and bacteria are washed out. | **This is metabolised by colonic bacteria are responsible for producing acids, thereby decreasing the pH in the colon. Ammonia is converted into ammonium ions which cannot be absorbed and is therefore lost in the faeces. Lactulose also causes water to be drawn into the colonic lumen, causing diarrhoea, thereby more faeces and bacteria are washed out. |