FAQ's
WHAT IS LACTOSE INTOLERANCE (LI)?
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| LI is a dietary problem arising due to lack of an enzyme called Lactase, produced by cells that line the small intestine. When the enzyme production is low, our body is unable to break down the sugar lactose present in dairy products and this unused lactose will be digested by resident bacteria in the colon. This sometimes results in symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain or cramps. |
| HOW DOES A PERSON BECOME LI? |
a. One’s genetic make-up dictates this condition. The cells that produce Lactase enzyme can decrease the production at any time after childhood and this persists into adulthood. Hence the individual is unable to digest lactose resulting in symptoms like bloating, diarrhea which can become more acute as you get older. This condition occurs almost equally in men and women and is referred to as primary Lactose Intolerance.
b. LI can also result from certain illnesses. This is more common in persons with Irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease or diverticulitis, a condition referred to as secondary lactose intolerance. |
| WHAT IS LACTASE PERSISTENCE? |
| When a person is able to digest lactose throughout his/her life time, the condition is referred to as Lactase persistence. The cells that produce lactase enzyme persist and continue production of the enzyme that breaks down lactose present in dairy products. |
WHO CAN TAKE THIS GENETIC TEST AND WHY DO I NEED TO DO THIS TEST? |
| LI is a recurrent problem that is seen in all races and in all countries of the world. This is a confirmatory test for individuals who are unsure of their tolerance/intolerance to lactose. Consult a doctor. Avoid self diagnosis. |
| WHAT ARE ADVANTAGES OF GENETIC TESTING AND HOW LONG ARE THE TEST RESULTS VALID? |
Genetic testing requires only a source of genetic material like saliva which can be collected with ease and sent for testing. No lab visit needed and is a non-invasive test. Clinical tests like Hydrogen Breath Test and Glucose Tolerance Test require overnight fasting and takes several hours to complete.
The genetic test results are valid for a lifetime as the genetic make-up of an individual does not change. |
| WHAT IF I AM DIAGNOSED LACTOSE INTOLERANT? |
| Please consult your physician for management of your lactose intolerance. |
| WHY DO I NEED DAIRY PRODUCTS? |
| Dairy products are the major sources of calcium (though calcium is also found in other foods). Milk, cheese, yogurt are also important source of essential nutrients and together provide calcium, potassium, vitamins A, B12, riboflavin, phosphorous and proteins. Milk also provides vitamin D which helps body to absorb calcium. Our body needs calcium for healthy bones and teeth. Lack of calcium may lead to thin and weak bones in later years that can break easily, a condition known as osteoporosis. We need plenty of food rich in calcium to build strong bones. |
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