Lactose intolerance

Digestive and absorption disorders of certain nutrients are a widespread problem. They most commonly manifest as bloating, flatulence, a feeling of poor digestion, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and this may lead to gradual weight loss. Among the most common disorders is lactose intolerance, which affects a significant percentage of the population in some countries.

Lactose intolerance (lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency) is a condition in which the individual lacks or has limited production of lactase. This enzyme is produced by the cells of the lining of the small intestine and its function is to break down milk sugar (lactose). If this does not occur, the consumption of lactose sources (animal milk and dairy products) results in a range of digestive issues.
We produce the most lactase in infancy, and then its activity gradually declines. Reduction in its production often occurs in patients with small intestine diseases, but also quite frequently after suffering from a diarrheal disease, where the cause is the not entirely restored intestinal microflora. Generally, it can be said that the condition worsens with age.

Effect of Diet on Lactose Intolerance

The symptoms of this problem should disappear after eliminating foods that cause the described issues - namely animal milk and dairy products containing lactose. However, lactose is very often used as an additive (filler) in many foods, dietary supplements, and medications, which complicates the situation for those suffering from this intolerance. Therefore, besides attempting to adjust the diet, it is also necessary to thoroughly read product labels.

Some individuals can digest certain types of dairy products (e.g., cheeses or yogurts) without significant issues because the lactose content in them is minimal, which is due to the process of their aging (fermentation). The longer a dairy food is fermented (undergoes a fermentation process where microorganisms consume lactose), the less milk sugar it contains. Therefore, in some situations, it is not essential to avoid all dairy products, but this is highly individual.

Since a common cause of lactose intolerance is dysbalance in the gut biome, to alleviate bloating and flatulence associated with milk sugar intolerance, it is advisable to support diversity (species richness) in the intestinal tract. This entails ensuring the intake of both probiotic and prebiotic factors in the diet, i.e., the consumption of fermented foods, fiber, and lastly, sources of selected microorganisms that are part of the intestinal microflora (it is also beneficial to take specific dietary supplements containing microbes). Addressing such a situation requires investing a considerable amount of time, generally weeks.

If a person affected by lactose intolerance wishes to consume dairy products (with reduced lactose content), they have the option of using preparations containing the lactase enzyme, which are readily available today.