Milk is a product that we know to have high nutritional values and a major role in bone development, which some of us cannot consume due to its ethical values or because of allergy to lactose in it. Children’s breakfast drink, the cornerstone of some desserts, calcium source, yoghurt, cheese, etc. Animal milk, which is the main ingredient of products, has lactose, which we can call natural sugar.
Milk has two types that we get from animals and plants. Lactose, on the other hand, is present in all animal milks, although the value varies according to the type of animal. Let’s look at what lactose is, what is lactose intolerance and what are the harms of lactose.
What is lactose?
It is formed by the combination of lactose, glucose and galactose found in animal milks. It is also known by the name ‘Milk sugar’. In Latin, “di” means two, and dissaccharide means “double sugars”. Lactose, which also has an energizing feature, can also show different and unexpected effects according to people’s stomach sensitivity.
So what is lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a type of allergy that occurs as a result of the inability of the digestive enzyme called “lactase” in our small intestine to do its job adequately. Lactase is responsible for breaking down lactose in foods and beverages; so our body can digest it.
Lactose intolerance is caused by the inability to digest lactose in milk and dairy products. This very common allergy is present in about two-thirds of the world’s adult population. When people with lactose intolerance consume dairy products, they experience symptoms such as bloating, nausea, gas, diarrhea and abdominal cramps that will negatively affect their quality of life. These symptoms may occur 30-60 minutes after eating. When the consumed product reaches the colon in the large intestine, it forms lactose short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and gas, which are fermented by bacteria in the intestine. This causes bloating, gas, and pain. The severity of symptoms varies depending on how well the body can tolerate lactose and the amount of product consumed. These symptoms are fortunately short-lived. However, if it occurs frequently, it may be healthier to consume lactose-free milk.
Lactose is also found in breast milk, and in fact almost every one of us is born with the ability to digest lactose. Despite this, we can develop lactose intolerance at any age. Lactose intolerance is not one type, there are several types of intolerance and it is caused by different factors. But lactose intolerance is characterized by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase. If left untreated, lactose intolerance can cause serious digestive problems. However, unless we consume large amounts of lactose or another condition worsened by digestive irritation caused by lactose intolerance, we are generally not affected.
Who is lactose intolerant more common?
- It usually occurs in adults. It is less common in infants and young children.
- It may develop due to low lactase level in babies born prematurely.
- People who have undergone cancer treatment have an increased risk of developing lactose intolerance due to radiation from chemotherapy.
- Conditions affecting the small intestine can cause lactose intolerance
Different types of lactone intolerance:
- Primary lactose intolerance
- Secondary lactose intolerance
- Congenital lactose intolerance
- Developmental lactose intolerance
Primary lactose intolerance:
The most common type of intolerance, caused by a decrease in lactase production with age. Over time, the ability to absorb lactose is lost. This type of lactose intolerance may be partially genetic, as it is more common in some populations than others. Studies estimate that it affects less than 10% of Northern European people, about 50% of Latino and Middle Eastern people, and 80-99% of African and Asian people.
Secondary lactose intolerance:
Develops as a result of another condition affecting the small intestine where lactase is produced. This is because inflammation in the intestinal wall leads to a temporary decrease in lactase production. Possible causes of secondary lactose intolerance include Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, chemotherapy, ulcerative colitis, and aging.
Congenital lactose intolerance:
In this type of intolerance, newborns have congenital lactose intolerance. This condition is a rare, inherited type. For this intolerance to occur, both parents must have a specific gene mutation for congenital lactose intolerance. The mother cannot breastfeed her baby due to the lactose content in her milk. Side effects are severe diarrhea and high calcium levels in the blood.
Developmental lactose intolerance:
It is usually seen in premature infants born with a fully developed digestive system and causes symptoms such as digestive distress. This condition usually resolves on its own as the baby grows. However, in this process, it may be necessary to use lactose-free formula instead of breast milk in the feeding of the baby.
What are the harms of lactose?
- People who are allergic to lactose may experience nausea, abdominal pain, bloating and gas problems.
- It makes digestion difficult in the large intestine.
- Continuous consumption of lactose may cause irregular eating habits.
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