LactoseThe sugar present in milk and milk derivatives requires an enzyme called lactase to be properly digested. However, this is not the case, some people have a lactase deficiencyleading to lactose intolerance. In this article, we explore the digestive consequences of this deficiency, the associated symptoms and ways of managing this condition. to maintain optimal digestion.
We will answer the following questions:
👉 What is the enzyme lactase and how is it produced?
👉 What explains the progressive lactase deficiency?
👉 What is its link with lactose intolerance?
👉 What are the consequences of a lack of lactase for the body?
What is the enzyme lactase and how is it produced? 🤔
The enzyme lactase is a digestive enzyme crucial to the breakdown of lactose, a sugar present in milk and dairy products. It plays an essential role in the digestion process by catalysing the breakdown of lactose into two simple sugars, glucose and galactose, which can then be absorbed by the small intestine.
The body naturally produces lactaseThe production of this enzyme varies considerably from one person to another, depending on a number of factors.
In infants, it is particularly active because breast milk or infant milk is their main source of nutrition. As children grow, lactase production generally declines, but it persists at varying levels in many people into adulthood.
How can progressive lactase deficiency be explained? 📉
Lactase production is regulated by a specific gene, called the lactase gene, located in the DNA.. In some people, this gene remains active throughout life, allowing continuous production of lactase. This is known as lactase persistence.
In other individuals, lactase production decreases after weaningThis leads to a natural reduction in the ability to digest lactose. hypolactasiaHypolactasia is a condition in which the body's ability to produce sufficient lactase decreases over time. Hypolactasia is frequently observed in certain populations, particularly those of Asian, African or Amerindian descent.
What is the link with lactose intolerance? 🥛❌
People suffering from insufficient production lactase deficiency can develop lactose intolerance (or alactasia), characterised by digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea after consuming lactose-containing products (dairy products, cold meats, sauces, prepared dishes). The severity of symptoms varies from one person to another, but untreated lactose intolerance can have a significant impact on quality of life.
What are the consequences of a lack of lactase on the body? 😩
In addition to the immediate digestive symptoms, an unmanaged lactase deficiency can have long-term consequences on health. Lactose malabsorption by the body can lead to calcium and vitamin D deficiency, increasing the risk of bone problems such as osteoporosis. In addition, the stress associated with the symptoms and the incomplete assimilation of food can lead to a chronic fatigue in certain individuals, reducing your body's immune defences.
Chronic fatigue: a symptom not to be taken lightly! 🚨
Lactase supplementation: a natural 100% solution! 💊
Lactase supplementation offers an effective solution for reducing or even eliminate the undesirable effects of lactose intolerance.
In the event of insufficient production of lactase by the body, taking supplements before consuming milk products can compensate for this deficiency. Lactase supplements are generally available in pill or capsule form and contain a concentrated form of the enzyme lactase.
For over 10 years, the French laboratory Physiosynthèse, through its Lactolérance brand, has been offering food supplements based on concentrated lactase, enabling people with lactose intolerance to digest lactose without problems.
- Lactolérance 4500 for lactase concentrated for moderate intolerances. 1-hour protection. Taken on demand.
- Lactolérance 9000 Concentrated lactase for severe intolerances. 1-hour protection. Taken on demand.
- Lactolérance 1Day a probiotic-based formula that protects you for 24 hours against all symptoms one capsule a day whatever your level of lactose intolerance!
By offering a practical alternative for those suffering from lactose intolerance, lactase supplementation from Lactolérance helps maintain a varied and balanced diet, while promoting comfortable digestion and minimising dietary restrictions.
Fed up with the symptoms of lactose intolerance? Take action ⬇️
Hello, I'm Vincent 😄
Like you, I'm lactose intolerantI know exactly what you're going through and the difficulties you encounter on a daily basis. For over 10 years, I've been helping our customers to use our dietary supplements and giving advice and tips on how to improve their digestive comfort. I'm also a keen cook and gourmet, so you'll find my favourite recipes for a lactose-free diet in this blog.
Lactose intolerance is not inevitable! With Lactolerance you can digest with complete peace of mind 😉