Lactose malabsorption and intolerance in the elderly

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Human Physiology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Lactase activity decline with age in rats is known, but human data on elderly lactose intolerance and malabsorption is limited.
• Previous studies on lactose intolerance in the elderly lack definitive conclusions.
• The impact of aging on lactose intolerance and malabsorption requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of aging on lactose intolerance and malabsorption.
• To assess age-related changes in lactose digestion and symptom prevalence.
• To evaluate the relationship between age, lactose malabsorption, and intolerance symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-four healthy subjects were divided into three age groups: <65, 65-74, and >74 years.
• Hydrogen/methane (H2/CH4) breath tests were used to assess intestinal gas production, oro-cecal transit time after lactulose, and lactose malabsorption.
• Lactose intolerance symptoms were recorded during and after the lactose breath test.

Main Results:

• Lactose malabsorption prevalence increased with age, being highest in subjects over 74 years.
• Lactose intolerance prevalence among malabsorbers decreased with age, with the highest prevalence in the <65 years group.
• No significant differences in daily calcium intake were observed across age groups.

Conclusions:

• Lactose malabsorption prevalence increases with age.
• Lactose intolerance symptoms among those with malabsorption decrease with advancing age.
• Daily calcium intake remained consistent across adult and elderly participants.