Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body is unable to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This inability occurs because of a deficiency in lactase, an enzyme produced in the small intestine. Lactase breaks down lactose into simpler sugars for absorption in the body. When lactase levels are too low, lactose passes undigested into the colon, where it is fermented by bacteria. This process leads to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
Why Does Lactose Intolerance Happen?
Lactose intolerance can be caused by a variety of factors:
- Genetic factors: The most common cause is a decrease in lactase production as a person ages, especially among certain ethnic groups. For example, it is more common in people of Asian, African, and Mediterranean descent. In some cases, lactase deficiency is inherited from parents.
- Primary lactase deficiency: This is the most common type, often related to ageing. The body’s ability to produce lactase decreases after early childhood, and it may become insufficient to break down the lactose in dairy products.
- Secondary lactase deficiency: This can occur as a result of injury to the small intestine due to diseases such as coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, or chronic inflammation. It may also follow a viral infection (e.g., gastroenteritis) that temporarily damages the lining of the small intestine.
- Developmental or congenital lactase deficiency: This is extremely rare and is present from birth due to a genetic mutation that prevents the production of lactase enzyme.
When Does Lactose Intolerance Occur?
Lactose intolerance can develop at any age, but it is more common in adults. Symptoms usually appear 30 minutes to two hours after consuming foods or drinks containing lactose. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of lactose consumed and individual tolerance levels.
How to Treat Lactose Intolerance
While there is no cure or direct treatment for lactose intolerance, several strategies can help manage the condition and reduce symptoms:
- Dietary changes:
- Avoidance of high-lactose foods: Limiting or reducing the intake of milk, cheese, ice cream, and other dairy products can help alleviate symptoms. Lactose is also found in processed foods, so it is important to read food labels.
- Lactose-free products: Many milk alternatives and dairy products are now available that are lactose-free, such as lactose-free milk, yogurt, and cheese.
- Lactase supplements: Over-the-counter lactase enzyme tablets or capsules can be taken before consuming dairy products to help break down lactose.
- Gradual introduction: Some people find that consuming small amounts of dairy (e.g., lactose-reduced milk, cheese, or yogurt) helps their body adjust.
- Lactose enzyme supplements:
- Lactase tablets or drops: These are taken before consuming lactose-containing foods and can help digest lactose effectively.
- Probiotics: Probiotics can improve symptoms in some people with lactose intolerance by helping to break down lactose in the gut.
- Medication:
- Lactase enzyme: Lactase enzyme supplements can be taken orally to help break down lactose and prevent symptoms. They can be found in various forms, such as chewable tablets, capsules, and liquid drops.
- Over-the-counter anti-diarrhoeal medications: These can help alleviate symptoms like diarrhoea if it occurs after consuming lactose.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals: This can help reduce the amount of lactose in each meal and prevent symptoms.
- Limiting high-lactose foods to meals when they are most needed, such as breakfast, can also be beneficial.
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