Understanding Lactose Intolerance: What It Is and How to Support Your Digestion

Are you among the 68% of the global population with reduced lactose absorption? Chances are, you might be! While not harmful, lactose intolerance can certainly be uncomfortable and sometimes inconvenient. Let’s dive into what lactose intolerance really is and how you can support your body’s ability to handle dairy.

What Is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive condition that occurs when your body doesn’t produce enough lactase to fully break down lactose, the main sugar found in milk and dairy products. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1.     Lactose is present in milk from all mammals (except sea lions, interestingly enough).

2.     Babies are typically lactose tolerant as breast milk is their primary food source.

3.     Normally, lactase enzymes in the small intestine convert lactose into glucose and galactose, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream.

4.     As people age, many naturally produce less lactase.

5.     Without enough lactase, undigested lactose travels to the large intestine, where bacteria interact with it, leading to digestive discomfort.

Signs You May Be Lactose Intolerant

Digestive responses to lactose usually appear 30 minutes to two hours after consuming lactose-containing foods. Common responses include:

•       Diarrhea

•       Stomach cramps

•       Bloating

•       Gas

While these responses can be unpleasant, they’re generally not dangerous. However, they can significantly impact your daily comfort and social interactions.

Supporting Lactose Digestion

Most people support their digestive comfort by:

1.     Supplementing with lactase enzymes or probiotics that support lactose digestion

2.     Modifying their diet

3.     Consuming lactose-free foods or non-dairy alternatives

4.     Adjusting lactose intake

5.     Always asking, “Is there dairy in that?” when dining out

Some individuals choose to completely eliminate lactose from their diet. However, this can be challenging and may lead to gaps in nutrition, as dairy is a valuable source of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients.

About Bactose®
Bactose® is a probiotic supplement provided in a structured 7-day monthly format. It does not contain lactase enzymes and is not intended for dairy protein allergies. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding digestive or dietary concerns.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.