Digestive Health - Bloody Good
Digestive Health

Gastrin

The Gastrin test measures the level of a hormone that triggers your stomach to make acid. Too much gastrin can cause stomach ulcers or signal certain rare tumours, while low levels can affect digestion. This test helps check how well your stomach and digestive system are working.

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Gastrin

Experiencing persistent stomach issues, acid reflux, or digestive discomfort and want to assess your stomach acid production and digestive function?

Overview

Think of gastrin as your stomach's "dinner bell" hormone – it's the chemical messenger that tells your stomach when it's time to ramp up acid production for digestion. When you eat, especially protein-rich foods, special cells in your stomach release gastrin, which then signals your stomach to produce the hydrochloric acid needed to break down your meal properly. This hormone acts like a sophisticated control system, making sure your digestive process runs smoothly and your body can absorb all those important nutrients.

A gastrin test helps solve the mystery behind stubborn digestive problems by checking whether this hormone system is working correctly. When gastrin levels are too high, it might point to conditions like gastrin-producing tumors or chronic stomach inflammation, often leading to excessive acid production and painful ulcers. When levels are too low, your stomach might not be making enough acid for proper digestion. This test is particularly valuable if you're dealing with recurring stomach pain, persistent acid reflux, or ulcers that won't heal with typical treatments – it helps your doctor understand whether a hormonal imbalance might be the root cause of your digestive troubles.

Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran
Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer

Symptoms

You may benefit from this test if you experience:
Upper abdominal pain or discomfort Chronic stomach burning Pain that worsens after eating Heartburn or acid reflux Burning sensation in chest or throat Food getting stuck in throat Feeling like food sits in stomach too long

Purpose

Essential for individuals with unexplained gastric symptoms, recurrent peptic ulcers, suspected Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, or anyone needing comprehensive digestive hormone assessment.

How to prepare

Fasting for 8-12 hours required for accurate results. Take sample before 10am when possible. Discontinue acid-suppressing medications if medically appropriate and as directed by healthcare provider. Avoid alcohol and smoking before testing.

Understanding results

Results show gastrin levels compared to normal ranges. Elevated levels may indicate gastrin-producing tumors or other gastric disorders, while low levels might suggest reduced acid production or digestive dysfunction.

After the test

Address abnormal gastrin levels through comprehensive gastric evaluation, appropriate treatments for underlying conditions, medication adjustments if needed, and dietary modifications. Work with gastroenterologists for specialized care.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Elevated gastrin may indicate gastrin-producing tumors (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome), chronic atrophic gastritis, pernicious anemia, or effects of acid-suppressing medications.
  • A rare condition caused by gastrin-producing tumors that leads to excessive stomach acid production, severe peptic ulcers, and digestive complications requiring specialized treatment.
  • Yes, acid-suppressing medications (proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers) can significantly elevate gastrin levels, which is why they may need to be discontinued before testing.
  • Low gastrin may result from reduced stomach acid production, certain medications, gastric surgery, or conditions affecting gastrin-producing cells in the stomach.
  • Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications to control acid production, treatment of H. pylori infection, or surgery for gastrin-producing tumors.
  • Fasting ensures accurate baseline gastrin levels, as food intake, especially protein, normally stimulates gastrin release and can affect test results.
Gastrin

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How it works

What to expect

We want you to feel bloody good—inside and out. Regular testing isn’t just about checking your current health; it helps you spot abnormal values you might not know about.

1

Book your referral

Choose the testing that suits your goals. After ordering, you will receive your referral by email.

2

Collect your sample

Easy sample collection at one of our 4000+ partner collection centres throughout Australia. Find nearest

3
Receive your results

Receive your results

View your lab results and receive a personalised review from the secure Bloody Good platform.

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