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Lactase deficiency: prevalence in osteoporosis
Annals of Internal Medicine
|August 1, 1978
Summary
Lactase deficiency is more common in women with osteoporosis. This may lead to lower calcium intake and absorption, contributing to bone density loss.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Idiopathic postmenopausal osteoporosis is a significant health concern.
- Lactase deficiency, the inability to digest lactose, is common but its role in osteoporosis is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of lactase deficiency in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
- To investigate the association between lactase deficiency and osteoporosis.
Main Methods:
- Respiratory hydrogen (H2) analysis was used to diagnose lactase deficiency.
- 30 women with osteoporosis and 31 controls were tested after a lactose challenge.
Main Results:
- Lactase deficiency was significantly more prevalent in women with osteoporosis (8/30) compared to controls (1/31).
- Lactase-deficient individuals reported lower lactose and calcium intake.
- Symptoms after lactose ingestion were more frequent in lactase-deficient subjects.
Conclusions:
- Lactase deficiency is a potential contributing factor to osteoporosis.
- Reduced calcium intake due to lactase deficiency may impair bone health.
- Further research is needed to explore the impact of lactase deficiency on calcium absorption in osteoporosis.
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