[Effect of exogenous lactase on the absorption of lactose and its intolerance symptoms]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of lactase on lactose malabsorption and its intolerance symptoms, as well as the available way to improve lactose absorption. Healthy adults with a history of lactose intolerance were screened by 25 g lactose tolerance test. The individuals with higher H2 expired and/or lactose intolerance symptoms were selected as the subjects. Subjects were challenged twice with "400 ml low fat milk" and "400 ml low fat milk + 9000Fcc lactase" separately in 3 days interval. The breath H2 concentration and intolerance symptoms were tested in 4 hours after the challenge. The results showed that exogenous lactase can significantly decrease the incidence of lactose malabsorption (the abnormal expiration of H2 decreased from 100% to 48.9%) and milk intolerance symptoms(from 51.1% to 13.3%). The results from this study demonstrate that lactose malabsorption and intolerance symptoms are resulted from the reduced enzyme activities of individuals, and the exogenous lactase can improve lactose absorption and intolerance symptoms. Lactose supplementation may be an available way to increase the dairy consumption and promote health of people.