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Understanding the Science, Prevalence, and Global Impact of Lactose Intolerance.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a digestive condition where your body is unable to fully digest lactose, a type of sugar often found in dairy.
Common Symptoms
Management Strategies
❋ Gas
❋ Bloating
❋ Diarrhea
❋ Stomach cramps/pain
❋ Dairy alternatives
❋ Enzyme supplements
❋ Lactose-free products
❋ Smaller portions of dairy
The Science Behind Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance occurs because your body doesn’t produce enough of the enzyme lactase.
In the small intestine, lactase (an enzyme) is responsible for breaking down lactose (a type of sugar found in dairy). Without enough lactase, lactose can’t be digested properly and ends up moving along into the large intestine. There, gut bacteria “eat” the lactose, producing gasses and other byproducts. This process is what leads to the common symptoms of lactose intolerance.