Lactase deficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide and affects millions of people. This widespread disorder of milk sugar digestion leads to the characteristic symptoms of lactose intolerance. Modern dietary supplements and Nutraceuticals from Nutrador® we offer effective solutions to enable a symptom-free diet despite this genetically determined peculiarity.
What is Lactase Deficiency?
Lactase deficiency refers to a condition where the small intestine does not produce enough lactase enzyme. Lactase is a crucial digestive enzyme that breaks down milk sugar (lactose) into its two components glucose and galactose. Without this enzyme, the body cannot properly process lactose, leading to the typical symptoms of lactose intolerance.
The enzyme deficiency naturally develops in most people after weaning. While infants have high lactase levels to optimally digest breast milk, enzyme production decreases continuously in many individuals over their lifetime.
Genetic Basics of Lactase Persistence
The ability to produce lactase even in adulthood is called lactase persistence. This genetic trait is relatively young in evolutionary terms and arose about 7,500 years ago alongside the development of dairy farming in various world regions.
The responsible gene variant (C/T-13910) on chromosome 2 determines lactase persistence. A large genetic study with over 3,300 participants showed clear geographic differences within Great Britain: The frequency of the non-persistence allele (C allele) decreases from south to north and from east to west. People with two copies of the "persistent" variant can consume dairy products without problems, while carriers of the original variant develop lactase deficiency after childhood.
Symptoms and effects
In people with lactase deficiency, consuming lactose-containing foods leads to characteristic complaints:
Gastrointestinal symptoms:
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Abdominal pain and cramps
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Bloating and feeling of fullness
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Diarrhea
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Nausea
Systemic effects:
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Fatigue after consuming dairy products
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Headaches
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General discomfort
The intensity of symptoms depends on the degree of lactase deficiency and the amount of lactose consumed. Many affected individuals tolerate small amounts without problems, while larger portions lead to pronounced complaints.
Clinical diagnostics with the hydrogen breath test
The hydrogen breath test is considered the standard for diagnosing lactose intolerance. The procedure is based on the principle that undigested lactose is fermented by gut bacteria, producing hydrogen gas.
Conducting the test:
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Fasting intake of a standardized lactose solution (usually 25-50g)
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Measurement of hydrogen concentration in the breath over 2-4 hours
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Documentation of accompanying symptoms
Evaluation of results:
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Under 20 ppm increase: Your body digests lactose normally
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20-40 ppm increase: Borderline - possibly mild digestive issues
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Over 40 ppm increase: Significant lactose intolerance likely
ppm stands for "parts per million" and is a unit of measurement for very small concentrations. In lactose intolerance diagnostics, it measures how much hydrogen gas is present in your breath.
A positive test confirms the diagnosis of lactose intolerance, while simultaneous symptoms emphasize the clinical relevance.
Difference between lactose intolerance and milk protein allergy
These two conditions are often confused but differ fundamentally:
Lactose intolerance:
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Enzyme defect (lactase deficiency)
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Concerns milk sugar
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Dose-dependent symptoms
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No immune reaction
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Symptoms after 30 minutes to 2 hours
Milk protein allergy:
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Immunological reaction
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Concerns milk proteins (casein, whey protein)
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Even the smallest amounts problematic
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IgE- or IgG-mediated reaction (immunoglobulins / antibodies)
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Symptoms within minutes to hours
Correct differentiation is crucial for the appropriate treatment strategy.
Evidence-based treatment options
Lactase enzyme replacement therapy
Supplementation with lactase enzymes represents the most effective immediate solution. These dietary supplements contain the missing enzyme in concentrated form and enable normal digestion of lactose.
Mechanism of action: The administered lactase enzyme breaks down the ingested lactose already in the stomach or small intestine before it reaches lower parts of the intestine and can cause symptoms there.
Dietary measures
Low-lactose diet:
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Gradual avoidance of products high in lactose
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Preference for naturally low-lactose dairy products (hard cheese, yogurt)
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Use of lactose-free alternatives
Portion control: Many affected individuals tolerate small amounts of lactose (5-12g daily) without symptoms. This corresponds to about 100-250ml of milk, spread throughout the day.
Probiotic approaches
Certain lactic acid bacteria can support lactose digestion with regular intake:
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Lactobacillus acidophilus
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Bifidobacterium longum
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Streptococcus thermophilus
These bacterial strains produce their own lactase enzymes and can alleviate the symptoms of lactose intolerance.
Long-term health aspects
People with lactase deficiency need to ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, as they consume fewer dairy products. Alternative calcium sources include:
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Green leafy vegetables (broccoli, kale)
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Almonds and sesame
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Fortified plant drinks
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Calcium supplements as needed
Regular monitoring of bone health by medical professionals is recommended, especially when completely avoiding dairy products.
Comprehensive enzyme support with Nutrador® Opti Enzyme Complex®
For people with lactase deficiency who also suffer from other digestive problems, the Nutrador® Opti Enzyme Complex® a holistic approach. This innovative formula combines 20 mg lactase (at least 85,000 ALU/g according to FCC IV) with ten other specialized digestive enzymes.
The special feature of this supplement is the synergistic effect of various enzymes: while lactase breaks down milk sugar, alpha-amylase supports carbohydrate digestion, lipase fat digestion, and various proteases protein breakdown. This combination can be especially helpful for people with multiple food intolerances or general digestive weaknesses.
Additionally, the complex contains proteolytic enzymes such as bromelain and papain, which may have anti-inflammatory properties and support regeneration. The recommended dosage of 3x daily 3 capsules with meals allows continuous enzyme support throughout the day.
Future perspectives and research
Science is continuously working on new approaches to treat lactase deficiency:
Gene therapy approaches: Experimental methods aim to reactivate lactase production through targeted genetic modification.
Improved enzyme formulations: New technologies enable more stable and effective lactase preparations with extended half-life.
Microbiome-based therapies: Targeted modulation of the gut flora could improve lactose digestion in the long term.
Practical tips for everyday life
Food selection:
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Yogurt and kefir are often better tolerated than milk
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Hard cheese naturally contains little lactose
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Be aware of hidden lactose in processed foods
Nutritional strategies:
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Consume lactose in combination with other foods
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Distribute small portions throughout the day
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Test individual tolerance limits
Supplement use:
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Always have lactase preparations on hand
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Adjust dosage according to meal size
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Plan ahead when dining out
Lactose intolerance is not curable, but with the right strategies and modern dietary supplements it is very well manageable. A conscious diet combined with targeted supplementation enables most affected individuals to have a normal quality of life without giving up beloved dairy products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can lactase deficiency still develop with age? Yes, in many people lactase production continues to decline with age. Primary lactase deficiency can therefore also develop in individuals who were able to consume dairy products without problems in younger years. This is a natural aging process and particularly affects people without the genetic predisposition for lactase persistence.
How quickly do lactase enzymes work and how long do they last? Lactase enzymes begin to break down lactose already in the stomach. The maximum effect unfolds within 15-45 minutes after intake. The duration of action is about 30-60 minutes, so an additional dose may be required for longer meals. The enzymes are completely broken down by the body and leave no residues.
Can lactase supplements have side effects? Lactase enzymes are generally very well tolerated because they are identical to the body's own enzyme. Rare side effects may include nausea or abdominal discomfort, usually with overdose. Allergic reactions are extremely rare. If problems persist, the dosage should be adjusted or a medical professional consulted. Most high-quality preparations contain no problematic additives.
Legal notice regarding health-related claims:
Our information is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Dietary supplements do not replace a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Health-related claims about dietary supplements must comply with the Health Claims Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 and be approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). If you have health complaints or questions, please consult a doctor.
