Lactase information page

Lactase is required to break down lactose (a primary sugar found in mammalian milk) and is produced in the small intestine, which breaks lactose into two simpler sugars.

on this page

• Lactase is required for
• Deficiency of lactase
• Toxicity and symptoms of high intake
• When more may be required
• Other interesting points
• Lactase is contained in the following Zest for Life product

Lactase is required for

It is required the digestion of milk and milk products.

Some people do not produce enough lactase and are often referred to as lactose intolerant, and symptoms may include cramps, gas as well as diarrhea.

It has also been suggested that lactose intolerant people have a problem with calcium absorption, and this may also need to be checked, by a lactose intolerant person.

Deficiency of lactase

If the intestines do not produce enough (or any) lactase, the milk sugar (lactose) is not digested and moves into the colon, where it is fermented by bacteria - producing hydrogen, carbon dioxide and organic acids, which can result in diarrhea, gas and cramps.

To test for lactose intolerance, drink two glasses of milk on an empty stomach and watch for any gastrointestinal symptoms. Do the same test but substitute the milk with cheese.

If you have any symptoms from the milk, but not from the cheese (which contains very little lactose), you might be lactose intolerant. If you have symptoms from both, it may indicate an allergy to dairy.

If you suffer from lactose intolerance, it might be helpful to have a lactase supplement before having any meal containing lactose.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

It is safe, and no toxicity or side effects have been reported when taking a dietary supplement.

When more may be required

A supplement may be beneficial to people suffering from diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome as well as sufferers of migraine headaches, since certain studies indicate that migraine sufferers are deficient in lactase.

Other interesting points

It is an interesting point that when yogurt is eaten, it does not easily trigger symptoms in lactose-intolerant people.

Lactase is contained in the following Zest for Life product

• Enzyme capsules for optimum body function and health
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Nutritional information

Underneath we have information page on vitamins, minerals, amino acids, trace elements, enzymes and various nutritional compounds that can impact greatly on your general health, well-being and longevity. Please note that these pages are for general information only and must not be used to treat or diagnose health concerns.