According to a research conducted by B. Kwaku Adadevoh MD et al., “lactase deficiency was found in 81% of all the subjects. This consisted of 40 out of 48 Yorubas (84%), 9 out of 15 Hausa/Fulani (60%), 9 out of 11 Ibos (82%), and all 9 Nigerians belonging to other ethnic groups. The results indicate that lactase deficiency may be widespread throughout Nigeria.”
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks the enzyme lactase, which is required to digest lactose, a sugar present in milk and dairy products. Bloating, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain are common symptoms after eating lactose-containing meals. Lactose intolerance does not mean milk allergy. Milk allergy affects the immune system and can be life-threatening. It is the immune system’s response to one or more milk proteins, such as casein or whey. This article focuses on the science behind why some people experience stomach problems after consuming dairy products.
Lactase Enzymes
As previously stated, lactose is a naturally occurring sugar found in milk and dairy products. Your body needs to convert the lactose found in milk and cheese into simpler forms before it can be absorbed and used as energy.
That’s where lactase comes in. Lactase enters the picture here. Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose into two smaller sugars called glucose and galactose. Think of lactase as a tiny worker in your body. It is considerably simpler for your body to process and use these smaller carbohydrates.
Now, where does lactase work? It is mostly produced in the small intestine, which is part of the digestive system. It is specifically created in the cells that line the walls of the small intestine. When you drink milk, lactase goes to work, breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose, which your body can absorb and use for energy.
Causes of Lactase Deficiency
Primary Lactase Deficiency (genetics): Many people naturally lose lactase production as they age. This decline is part of the body’s natural aging process. However, in some people, this reduction occurs faster, resulting in lactase insufficiency. Genetics play an important part in this process since changes in specific genes can affect lactase enzyme synthesis.
Secondary Lactase Deficiency (acquired): Secondary lactase insufficiency develops when the small intestine suffers injury that limits lactase synthesis. Celiac disease, in which the immune system reacts to gluten and destroys the small intestine lining, can cause secondary lactase insufficiency.
Similarly, inflammatory bowel illnesses such as Crohn’s disease, which induce intestinal inflammation and ulcers, might interfere with lactase synthesis.
The Effects of Lactose Intolerance
When a person with lactose intolerance consumes dairy, any lactose that isn’t adequately broken down in the small intestine moves on to the large intestine, where it encounters a new environment.
Certain bacteria in the large intestine ferment the undigested lactose. As a byproduct, this fermentation process emits gasses such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. Bloating, cramps, and flatulence (passing gas) are all indications of excess gas produced during the fermentation process.
Furthermore, unprocessed lactose in the large intestine can draw in water into the bowel, causing diarrhea.
Conclusion
Lactase is necessary for the digestion of the milk sugar lactose, but a lack of it causes lactose intolerance. When you consume dairy, you may have symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea. Managing lactose intolerance entails limiting dairy consumption or taking lactase supplements to relieve symptoms, resulting in a more comfortable digestive experience for affected people.
