Lactose intolerance

Definition

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase. Symptoms commonly include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming dairy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of lactase enzyme in the small intestine.
2. Symptoms typically appear 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose-containing foods.
3. Lactose intolerance is more common in adults than children and varies significantly among different ethnic groups.
4. Diagnosis can be confirmed with tests such as the hydrogen breath test or lactose tolerance test.
5. Management includes dietary changes like reducing or eliminating lactose-containing foods and using lactase supplements.

Review Questions

• What enzyme deficiency causes lactose intolerance?
• What are common symptoms associated with lactose intolerance?
• How can lactose intolerance be managed or treated?

Related terms

Lactase: An enzyme produced in the small intestine that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.

Hydrogen Breath Test: A diagnostic test used to measure the amount of hydrogen in the breath after consuming lactose.

Galactosemia: A rare genetic disorder affecting the body's ability to process galactose, one of the sugars formed from lactose.