Introduction

Lactase is a specialized digestive enzyme required to break down lactose — the natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. When lactase levels are insufficient, lactose passes undigested into the colon, where it ferments and causes digestive discomfort.

Lactose intolerance is extremely common in adults and increases with age, stress, gut infections, and antibiotic use.

What Is Lactase?

• Produced by cells lining the small intestine
• Breaks lactose into glucose & galactose
• Essential for proper dairy digestion
• Activity naturally declines with age

The Science: How Lactase Works

Lactase hydrolyzes lactose into two simple sugars that are easily absorbed.

• Prevents lactose fermentation in the gut
• Reduces gas, bloating & cramps
• Improves nutrient absorption from dairy
• Supports gut comfort & tolerance

Lactose Digestion & Gut Comfort

• Allows comfortable digestion of milk, curd & cheese
• Prevents diarrhea after dairy intake
• Reduces abdominal pain & bloating
• Improves meal tolerance

Lactose Intolerance Explained

• Primary: Age-related decline in lactase
• Secondary: Gut infections, IBS, celiac disease
• Temporary: After antibiotics or gastroenteritis

Calcium & Nutrient Absorption

• Improves calcium absorption from dairy
• Supports bone & teeth health
• Helps prevent vitamin D deficiency indirectly
• Supports muscle & nerve function

Signs of Low Lactase

• Bloating after milk or ice cream
• Gas & abdominal cramps
• Loose stools or diarrhea after dairy
• Urgency or discomfort after meals

Who Benefits Most from Lactase?

• Lactose intolerance
• IBS triggered by dairy
• Post-infection gut sensitivity
• Children with milk intolerance
• Elderly individuals
• Those avoiding dairy due to discomfort

Natural Sources of Lactase

• Human small intestine (endogenous)
• Fermented dairy (curd, yogurt – partially broken lactose)
• Probiotic bacteria (limited support)

Best Supplemental Forms

Dosage, Timing & Safety Guidelines

• Typical dose: 3,000–9,000 ALU per dairy meal
• Take immediately before or with first bite
• Safe for regular use
• Higher doses may be needed for large dairy intake

Timeline: When You’ll Feel the Benefits

• Immediate: Reduced bloating & cramps
• Same meal: Improved tolerance to dairy
• 1–2 weeks: Confidence reintroducing dairy

Lactase for Children & Elderly

• Children: Useful in milk intolerance (pediatric guidance)
• Elderly: Supports age-related enzyme decline
• Very safe when properly dosed

Lactase with Other Digestive Enzymes

• Amylase – starch digestion
• Protease – protein digestion
• Lipase – dairy fat digestion
• Probiotics – long-term gut support

Final Thoughts

Lactase is a simple yet powerful solution for lactose intolerance. By enabling proper dairy digestion, it prevents discomfort, supports calcium intake, and allows individuals to enjoy dairy without digestive distress.