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Lactose intolerance: analysis of underlying factors
R J Vonk1, M G Priebe, H A Koetse
1Laboratory Nutrition and Metabolism, Laboratory Centre CMC V, Y2147, University Hospital Groningen, PO Box 30 001, 9700 Groningen, the Netherlands. r.j.vonk@med.rug.nl
European Journal of Clinical Investigation
|December 21, 2002
Summary
Lactose intolerance symptoms vary due to differences in lactose digestion and gut transit time. Colonic processing of undigested lactose significantly impacts symptom severity in lactose intolerance.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Investigating the causes of symptom variability in lactose intolerance.
- Focus on individuals with genetically low lactase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the roles of lactose digestion and orocecal transit time (OCTT) in lactose intolerance symptom variability.
- To correlate these factors with symptom severity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the 13C-lactose/2H-glucose test to measure lactose digestion index (LDI).
- Employed the breath hydrogen test to determine orocecal transit time (OCTT).
- Categorized subjects into tolerant and intolerant groups based on a 6-hour symptom score (SSC) after lactose challenge.
Main Results:
- Lower LDI observed in the lactose intolerant group compared to the tolerant group (P = 0.008).
- Significantly shorter OCTT in the intolerant group (P = 0.003), positively correlated with LDI (P = 0.050).
- No significant differences in OCTT or LDI between mild and severe symptom subgroups within the intolerant group.
Conclusions:
- Lactose digestion capacity and OCTT influence the occurrence of lactose intolerance.
- Colonic processing of maldigested lactose is the primary driver of symptom severity differences in lactose intolerance.