Lactose Intolerance: An Overview
摘要
Lactose intolerance is a prevalent condition characterized by the body’s inability to digest lactose, leading to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of lactose intolerance, covering its physiological basis, various diagnostic methods and associated health issues. It delves into the biochemical mechanisms underlying lactose digestion, highlighting the role of lactase enzyme deficiency in symptom manifestation. Moreover, this chapter explores innovative treatment options for lactose intolerance, focusing on the use of both dairy and non-dairy products enriched with prebiotics and probiotics into the diet of lactose intolerant individuals, such as improved digestive function and modulation of the gut microbiota. By integrating current research findings and clinical perspectives, this chapter aims to provide valuable insights into the management of lactose intolerance and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.