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Lactose Intolerance
Protocol
Lactose intolerance occurs when the enzyme lactase is insufficient to properly break down lactose in the small intestine, causing fermentation by colonic bacteria and resulting in bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It can be classified as primary lactase non-persistence, a natural decline in enzyme activity after early childhood, or secondary lactose intolerance, which develops following intestinal damage or disease. Diagnosis methods include hydrogen breath testing, elimination trials, and blood or biopsy tests. Management typically involves reducing or limiting lactose intake, gradually reintroducing dairy to determine tolerance levels, supporting gut health with probiotics or healing nutrients, ensuring sufficient calcium intake, and monitoring for any red flags or related gastrointestinal conditions.
