Ursula Wastl
In a healthy person, the degradation of lactose in the small intestine is carried out by the body's own enzyme lactase. Lactose is split into simple sugars glucose and galactose and metabolized in the digestive tract.
In the case of primary / natural lactase deficiency, the reason is a genetic decline in lactase production with age. In Austria, 20 to 25 percent are affected by this acquired lactase deficiency. In contrast, the secondary lactase deficiency occurs as a concomitant with bowel disease and bowel surgery. However, this type of lactose intolerance may disappear after treatment of the disease. An "inborn lactase deficiency" is an enzyme defect that is very rare.
Lactose: Why are there complaints?
Lactose reaches the large intestine almost undigested, where, as with fructose intolerance, bacteria provide anaerobic digestion. In the colonic bowel, gases accumulate, resulting in a bloated abdomen and / or nausea. These gases escape through bloating or they pass through the bloodstream to the lungs, where they are exhaled. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, headache, sleep disorders, tiredness etc.
After the diagnosis, dairy products should be avoided for two to four weeks. The composition of the food plays an important role in lactose tolerance. For example, lactose can be better absorbed when combined with high-fat foods. In addition, lactose-containing foods are better tolerated throughout the day. (Further information: www.laktobase.at)
Keep yourself informed about the most common intolerancesas against fructose, Histamine, lactose and gluten.
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