Lactose Intolerance

Question 1

Lactose malabsorption & intolerance

Answer 1

Lactose Malabsorption: Small intestine can’t properly absorb lactose due to lactase deficiency.

Lactose Intolerance: Clinical symptoms caused by undigested lactose reaching the colon and interacting with gut bacteria.

Question 2

Lactose Intolerance Key Points

Answer 2

Not everyone with lactose malabsorption develops symptoms.

Tolerance Levels:
- Some can tolerate small amounts of lactose.
- Others need to strictly avoid lactose-containing foods and beverages.

Question 3

Lactose Intolerance Causes

Answer 3

Primary Lactose Intolerance:
- Common form; linked to reduced lactase production with age.
- Higher prevalence in African, Asian, and Middle Eastern populations.

Secondary Lactose Intolerance:
- Caused by conditions damaging the intestinal lining, such as:
- Coeliac disease, malnutrition, bowel surgery, enteritis, and IBD.

Question 4

Lactose Intolerance Diagnosis

Answer 4

Hydrogen Breath Test:
- Measures hydrogen levels after consuming lactose.
- High hydrogen levels and no blood glucose rise indicate improper lactose digestion.

Question 4

Lactose Intolerance Symptoms

Answer 4

Timing: 30 minutes to 2 hours post-lactose ingestion.

Symptoms:
- Frothy diarrhoea, bloating, cramping.
- Distended abdomen, borborygmi (stomach rumbling).
- Rapid intestinal motility and gastroparesis.

Question 5

Lactose Intolerance Treatment

Answer 5

Dietary Modifications:
- Tolerate small amounts of lactose if possible.
- Use low-lactose or lactose-free alternatives.
- Most hard cheeses and yoghurts are low in lactose.

Lactase Enzyme Supplements:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) options; taken before dairy consumption.

Calcium Intake:
- Non-dairy/low-lactose sources include: Fortified dairy alternatives, pink salmon, almonds, sardines, cheddar cheese, creamed cottage cheese.

Infants: Use lactose-free formula if needed.