Lactose Intolerance and Malabsorption Revisited: Exploring the Impact and Solutions

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Digestive Health
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Lactose intolerance (LI) is a prevalent digestive disorder with significant global impact.
• Despite its commonality, LI is frequently overlooked, lacking standardized diagnostic and management guidelines.
• This review addresses the clinical features, diagnostic methods, and management strategies for LI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of lactose intolerance.
• To focus on clinical features, diagnostic evaluation, and management strategies.
• To synthesize current literature on LI diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies published between 2013 and 2023 on PubMed.
• Prioritization of systematic reviews, meta-analyses, RCTs, case-control, cohort studies, and expert reviews.
• Analysis of diagnostic tests and dietary and supplemental management approaches for LI.

Main Results:

• The hydrogen breath test (HBT) is the most effective diagnostic method for LI, complemented by symptom assessment.
• A low-lactose diet, permitting 12-15g of lactose daily, is well-tolerated and beneficial for most individuals.
• While probiotics, prebiotics, and plant-based beverages may offer support, their efficacy in LI management requires further proof.

Conclusions:

• Effective diagnosis of LI relies on the HBT and clinical evaluation.
• Dietary modification, specifically a low-lactose diet, is a primary and effective management strategy.
• Further research is needed to validate the role of probiotics, prebiotics, and alternative beverages in LI management.