What Causes Someone to be Lactose Intolerant?

March 18, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for digesting lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. When lactase is deficient or absent, lactose cannot be properly broken down in the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

There are several factors that can contribute to lactose intolerance:

  • Genetics: Primary lactose intolerance is the most common form and is genetically determined. It occurs when the body produces less lactase with age, typically after childhood. Certain ethnic groups, including individuals of Asian, African, Native American, and Hispanic descent, are more likely to develop primary lactose intolerance.
  • Secondary Causes: Certain medical conditions or treatments can cause secondary lactose intolerance. These include gastrointestinal infections, such as gastroenteritis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal surgery. In these cases, damage to the small intestine can temporarily impair lactase production.
  • Age: Infants are born with high levels of lactase to digest breast milk or formula. However, as children age, lactase production may decrease, leading to lactose intolerance in adulthood.
  • Ethnicity and Geography: Rates of lactose intolerance vary among different ethnic groups and populations. Historically, populations that traditionally consumed dairy products have lower rates of lactose intolerance compared to populations with less dairy consumption.
  • Premature Birth: Premature infants may have lower levels of lactase, leading to temporary lactose intolerance until lactase production increases with age.
  • Medications or Treatments: Certain medications or treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can damage the lining of the intestine and reduce lactase production, leading to temporary lactose intolerance.

It’s important to note that lactose intolerance is not the same as a milk allergy. Milk allergy is an immune response to proteins found in milk, whereas lactose intolerance involves difficulty digesting lactose sugar due to insufficient lactase enzyme. If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management. Treatment typically involves dietary modifications to reduce or avoid lactose-containing foods or using lactase enzyme supplements to aid digestion.

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