Lactase is produced by the body and is the enzyme in the small intestine that digests lactose, the naturally occurring sugar in milk. Dairy products have varying levels of lactose, which affects how much lactase is required for proper digestion.
What it does
A deficiency of lactase affects the ability to digest milk and some diary products giving rise to side effects such as diarrhoea, bloating and abdominal pain.
Lactase is an enzyme that helps your body digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and other dairy products. If you don’t have enough lactase, you may experience lactose intolerance, which can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
Lactase is found in the small intestine. When you eat or drink something that contains lactose, the lactase in your small intestine breaks the lactose down into glucose and galactose, two simple sugars that your body can easily absorb.
If you have lactase deficiency, you don’t have enough lactase to break down all of the lactose in the food and drinks you consume. This can lead to lactose intolerance.
Lactose intolerance is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It is estimated that up to 70% of the world’s population is lactose intolerant.
There are a number of things you can do to manage lactose intolerance, including:
- Avoiding or limiting your intake of lactose-containing foods and drinks.
- Taking lactase supplements before eating or drinking lactose-containing products.
- Choosing lactose-free dairy products.
Benefits of Lactase
Lactase can help to improve lactose digestion and reduce the symptoms of lactose intolerance. This can make it easier for people with lactose intolerance to enjoy dairy products, which are a good source of calcium, protein, and other nutrients.
Lactase can also be used in the production of lactose-free dairy products. Lactose-free dairy products are a good option for people with lactose intolerance who want to enjoy the benefits of dairy without the unpleasant symptoms.
Examples of Products Full of Lactase
Lactase is found in a number of products, including:
- Lactase supplements
- Lactose-free dairy products, such as lactose-free milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream
- Lactase drops
- Lactase tablets
Potential Uses (for people with lactose intolerance)
| Lactose intolerance | Lactase deficiency | IBS |
| Indigestion | Heartburn | Diarrhoea |
Is Lactase an Enzyme?
Yes, lactase is an enzyme. Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body. Lactase specifically speeds up the chemical reaction that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
Lactose Lactase
Lactose and lactase are related in that lactase is the enzyme that breaks down lactose. Without lactase, the body cannot digest lactose, which can lead to lactose intolerance.
Lactase Enzyme Products
Lactase enzyme products are supplements that contain lactase. Lactase enzyme products can be taken before eating or drinking lactose-containing products to help improve lactose digestion and reduce the symptoms of lactose intolerance.
What is Lactase Enzyme in Milk?
Lactase enzyme in milk is a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down lactose. However, some people do not produce enough lactase enzyme to digest all of the lactose in milk, which can lead to lactose intolerance.
Cautions
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with lactase.
Generally, there are no side effects or contra-indications from using lactase.
