Changes

The absorptive capacity of the small intestine can be assessed by the D-glucose or D-xylose absorption tests. The method of carrying out these tests for either carbohydrat source is similar. D-xylose allows for a more secific test to be conducted as it is not metabolized by the small intestine mucose and its absorption is not affected by insulin. However, D-xylose is not readily available. D-glucose is more commonly used and the test is known as an oral glucose tolerance test.  

The absorptive capacity of the small intestine can be assessed by the D-glucose or D-xylose absorption tests. The method of carrying out these tests for either carbohydrat source is similar. D-xylose allows for a more secific test to be conducted as it is not metabolized by the small intestine mucose and its absorption is not affected by insulin. However, D-xylose is not readily available. D-glucose is more commonly used and the test is known as an oral glucose tolerance test.