This test is done when there is a concern that dietary fats are not properly absorbed. Malabsorption can occur from disorders in the pancreas, stomach, and small intestines. The diagnosis is made by measuring the fat content of stool for three consecutive days. To get the effective result, it is necessary to eat 100 grams of fat each day for six days. Begin the diet 3 days before the test. This fat load challenges the intestine to absorb fat. The amount of fat in the stool over a 24 hour period is measured to diagnose fat malabsorption.

• Fat intake should be from both animal and vegetable sources.
• Follow the instructions given by the laboratory on stool collection. Usually you have a canister for each day. Only place stool in the collection canisters.
• Information about the fat content of foods is readily available. Your food intake for the six days should include adequate grains, vegetables and fruits in addition to the 100 grams of fat.

Sample menu:

Fecal Fat information