Lactose Intolerance: Why Dairy Doesn’t Sit Well with Everyone

Welcome to another post from BioBasics! Today, I’m diving into a topic that affects millions: lactose intolerance. While some people can enjoy a glass of milk without any trouble, others find that even a small amount of dairy can throw their system off balance. In this post, I want to cover what lactose intolerance really is, what triggers it, and how people manage this sensitivity in their daily lives.

Background

Lactose intolerance occurs when the small intestine fails to produce sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for digesting lactose, the sugar found in milk. Normally, the enzyme lactase is produced in the presence of lactose. An isomer of lactose, allolactose, binds to the lac repressor protein, causing it to release from the operator region of the operon. This release allows RNA polymerase to transcribe the genes necessary for lactase synthesis, enabling the metabolism of lactose into, glucose and galactose, which are absorbed into the bloodstream.

There are several causes of lactose intolerance. Primary lactose intolerance results from a natural decline in lactase production with age, and can begin as early as from childhood. Secondary lactose intolerance develops after an illness or injury affecting the small intestine, such as Crohn’s disease. In rare cases, newborns are born intolerant to lactose due to a genetic deficiency in lactase production, called congenital lactose intolerance.

Dealing with Intolerance

What if lactase production is insufficient? If lactose is not broken down into simpler sugars, it will move into the colon, where it interacts with bacteria, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Fortunately, this condition is manageable, and individuals with lactose intolerance have various strategies and options at their disposal.

For those managing lactose intolerance, lactose-free dairy alternatives offer a practical solution. These products are specially treated to break down lactose, making them easier to digest without causing discomfort. Additionally, lactase supplements can be taken before consuming dairy to help break down lactose, reducing the likelihood of symptoms. Beyond dairy, there are also plant-based milk options such as almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk.

Ultimately, while lactose intolerance can make consuming dairy products challenging, there are many effective strategies to manage the condition. With these options, individuals can maintain a balanced diet and avoid the symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.