Lactase 200mg

Quest Lactase 200mg (enzyme) is a digestive enzyme that plays a crucial role in breaking down lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.

What is Lactose?
Lactose is a disaccharide (a type of sugar) composed of two simpler sugars: glucose and galactose. For the body to absorb these sugars, lactose must first be broken down by the lactase enzyme.

What is Lactase Enzyme?
Lactase is an enzyme produced in the brush border of the small intestine. Its specific job is to hydrolyze (break down) lactose into glucose and galactose, which can then be easily absorbed into the bloodstream.

Lactose Intolerance:
Many people, as they age or due to genetic factors, produce insufficient amounts of lactase. This condition is known as lactose intolerance (or lactase deficiency). When individuals with lactose intolerance consume dairy products, the undigested lactose passes into the large intestine, where it is fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process leads to uncomfortable symptoms.

Uses and Health Benefits of Lactase Enzyme Supplements:

The primary use and health benefit of taking lactase enzyme supplements is to alleviate the symptoms of lactose intolerance, allowing individuals to consume dairy products without discomfort.

1. Reduces Digestive Discomfort from Dairy:

   • Benefit: By providing the necessary enzyme, supplemental lactase breaks down lactose in the digestive tract before it can cause problems.

   • Symptoms Alleviated:

     • Bloating: Reduces the feeling of fullness and distension in the abdomen.

     • Gas (Flatulence): Minimizes the production of gas by colonic bacteria.

     • Diarrhea: Prevents the osmotic effect of undigested lactose drawing water into the intestines.

     • Abdominal Pain and Cramps: Lessens the discomfort caused by gas buildup and intestinal irritation.

     • Nausea: Can reduce feelings of sickness after consuming dairy.

2. Allows for Consumption of Dairy Products:

   • Benefit: Individuals with lactose intolerance can enjoy milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and other dairy-containing foods without experiencing negative side effects.

   • Impact: This expands dietary choices and makes it easier to obtain nutrients commonly found in dairy.

3. Improved Nutrient Intake:

   • Benefit: Dairy products are significant sources of calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and protein. By enabling dairy consumption, lactase supplements can help individuals maintain adequate intake of these essential nutrients.

   • Impact: This is particularly important for bone health (calcium and vitamin D).

4. Enhanced Quality of Life:

   • Benefit: Reduces the anxiety and discomfort associated with eating, especially in social situations or when dining out where dairy ingredients may be hidden.

   • Impact: Greater freedom and enjoyment in food choices.

How Lactase Enzyme Supplements are Used:

• Forms: Available as tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, or liquid drops.

• Timing: Typically taken just before or with the first bite/sip of a food or drink containing lactose.

• Dosage: The amount needed can vary depending on:

  • The individual’s degree of lactose intolerance.

  • The amount of lactose in the meal.

  • The strength of the lactase supplement (measured in FCC ALU – Food Chemical Codex Acid Lactase Units).

  • It often requires some personal experimentation to find the optimal dose.

• Drops: Lactase drops can also be added directly to liquid milk products a day in advance to pre-digest the lactose.

Important Considerations:

• Not a Cure for Milk Allergy: Lactose intolerance is an enzyme deficiency, while a milk allergy is an immune system reaction to milk proteins (like casein or whey). Lactase enzyme supplements will not help with a milk allergy, which can be life-threatening.

• Effectiveness Varies: While helpful for many, lactase supplements may not eliminate symptoms entirely for everyone, especially if a very large amount of lactose is consumed or if the individual is highly sensitive.

• Read Labels: Check food labels for hidden sources of lactose (e.g., in baked goods, processed foods, medications).

• Consult a Doctor: If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, it’s good to get a diagnosis from a healthcare professional to rule out other digestive conditions.

In summary, lactase enzyme supplements are a safe and effective way for individuals with lactose intolerance to manage their symptoms and enjoy dairy products, thereby improving their dietary variety and nutrient intake.