Lactose Intolerance
• Definition
· Lactose is a sugar made up a glucose and a galactose molecule.
· Lactase is the enzyme that breaks the bond between the glucose and galactose molecules.
· Lactose Intolerance is the state of a deficiency in lactase and accumulation of lactose in the colon.
• Overview
· Lactose Intolerance is very common especially in African-Americans and Asian populations
• Types
· Natural loss of lactase
· Temporary loss of lactase function due to minor damage to the intestinal wall from inflammatory reactions such as gastroenteritis, diarrhea.
• Symptoms
· Crampy abdominal pain
· Abdominal bloating
· Gas
· Diarrhea
• Treatment
· Avoidance of lactose-containing food (dairy products: milk, cheese, cream, ice cream, butter)
· Lactase supplements
References
Swallow DM. Genetics of lactase persistence and lactose intolerance. Annu Rev Genet. 2003;37:197–219. [PMID: 14616060]
Posted on September 24, 2008
