Understanding Lactose Intolerance: An Evidence-Based Approach
Lactose intolerance, also known as lactase-nonpersistence, is a common digestive disorder where the body is unable to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products¹.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is characterized by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose for absorption in the small intestine¹. When lactose is not properly digested, it passes into the colon where it is fermented by bacteria, leading to the production of gas and other byproducts¹. This process can cause symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps¹.
Genetic and Environmental Factors
Primary lactase deficiency, the most common cause of lactose intolerance, is genetically determined and characterized by a reduction in lactase activity that occurs after childhood¹. However, the onset and severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals, suggesting that other factors such as diet and gut microbiota may also play a role¹.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
The symptoms of lactose intolerance usually occur within a few hours after consuming foods or drinks that contain lactose. They may include:
– Bloating
– Diarrhea
– Abdominal cramps
– Flatulence
– Nausea
Diagnosis of Lactose Intolerance
The diagnosis of lactose intolerance is often based on symptom history and response to a low-lactose diet¹. Some healthcare providers may also use diagnostic tests such as the lactose tolerance test, hydrogen breath test, or stool acidity test².
Treatment of Lactose Intolerance
The primary treatment for lactose intolerance is dietary modification to reduce lactose intake¹. This may involve limiting consumption of milk and other dairy products, choosing lactose-free alternatives, or using lactase enzyme supplements¹. It’s important to ensure that adequate calcium and vitamin D are included in the diet since these nutrients are often obtained from dairy products¹.
Conclusion
Lactose intolerance is a common condition that can significantly impact quality of life. However, with appropriate dietary modifications and management strategies, individuals with lactose intolerance can lead healthy and symptom-free lives.
Remember, everyone’s body is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to listen to your body and make dietary adjustments that suit your individual needs.
References
(1) Scientific Opinion on lactose thresholds in lactose intolerance and …. https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1777.
(2) Clinical Approach to Lactose Intolerance – JAMA Network. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2752417.
(3) Lactose Absorption and Tolerance: A Review – JSTOR. https://www.jstor.org/stable/41464590.
(4) Lactose malabsorption and intolerance: a review – RSC Publishing. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2018/fo/c8fo00555a.
(5) en.wikipedia.org. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactose_intolerance.