Lactase information

The body requires lactase to break down lactose (a primary sugar found in mammalian milk) an is produced in the small intestine, which breaks lactose into two simpler sugars.

Required for

It is required the digestion of milk and milk products.

Some people do not produce enough lactase and are often referred to as lactose intolerant, and symptoms may include cramps, gas as well as diarrhea.

It has also been suggested that lactose intolerant people have a problem with calcium absorption, and this may also need to be checked, by a lactose intolerant person.

Deficiency indications

If the intestines do not produce enough (or any) lactase, the milk sugar (lactose) is not digested and moves into the colon, where it is fermented by bacteria - producing hydrogen, carbon dioxide and organic acids, which can result in diarrhea, gas and cramps.

To test for lactose intolerance, drink two glasses of milk on an empty stomach and to watch for any gastrointestinal symptoms. Do the same test but substitute the milk with cheese.

If you have any symptoms from the milk, but not from the cheese (which contains very little lactose), you might be lactose intolerant. If you have symptoms from both, it may indicate an allergy to dairy.

If you suffer from lactose intolerance, it might be helpful to have a lactase supplement before having any meal containing lactose.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

It is safe, and no toxicity or side effects have been reported when taking a dietary supplement.

When more may be required

A supplement may be beneficial to people suffering from diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome as well as sufferers of migraine headaches, since certain studies indicate that migraine sufferers are deficient of lactase.

Other interesting points

It is an interesting point that when yogurt is eaten, it does not easily trigger symptoms in lactose-intolerant people.

Lactase is found in the following Zest for Life products

• Enzyme capsules for optimum body function and health

Our products

	Adaptogens. Balance and help us cope with stresses.
	Anti-aging supplement. Helps to fight the signs and symptoms of ageing.
	Antioxidants. Fight ageing, degenerative disease and free radicals.
	Apple cider vinegar capsules with Gotu Kola. The trusted folk remedy.
	BodyGuard. Immune boost formula.
	Enzymes. Required for metabolic processes.
	Millenium 2000. Slimming capsules to make dieting easy.
	OystaCal. The best organic and bio-available calcium.
	Phytosterols. Plant chemicals to boost your system.
	Hair, Skin and Nail Formula. The best formula for improving your looks.
	Vitalyze. Your high-energy boost to live life with vigor and stress-buster.
	Vuka 2000. The most advanced sexual supplement.

Nutritional information

Here are some information page on which you can read more about a specific nutrient and the role it plays in our general well-being. Please note - we do not use or sell all of these compounds but include the information for the benefit of our clients and visitors. To visit our selection of vitamin products please click here.