Lactase is a digestiveenzymeinvolved in the breakdown of lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products.
People with lactose intolerance cannot produce enough lactase on their own.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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Lactase supplements are mostly used by people who have difficulty digesting lactose found in dairy products.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent diseases.
A 2014 study reported significant variability in response to lactase supplementation.
Illustration by Anastasiia Tretiak for Verywell Health
It should be noted that many people with lactose intolerance have additional food sensitivities or allergies.
Essentially, other factors may contribute to being unable to metabolize lactose.
Work with your healthcare provider to find the best option for you.
Bone Health
Lactase supplements cannot improve bone health directly.
However, lactase can help people who are lactose intolerant eat more dairy without side effects.
This is because they are not getting enoughcalcium.
Eating enough calcium can help build and maintain healthy bones while reducing the risk ofbone lossand osteoporosis.
People who have difficulty digesting lactose can still absorb calcium from dairy products.
However, not everyone deficient in lactase has lactose intolerance.
A deficiency can mean levels of lactase are lower than normal, but still present.
And lactose intolerance only pops up if symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain appear.
Lactase deficiency can appear over time as you age.
It can also be diagnosed during childhood or even at birth.
It should be noted that lactase deficiency does not always result in lactose intolerance.
Sometimes, lactase levels never get low enough to cause lactose intolerance.
What Causes a Lactase Deficiency?
Lactase deficiencies can be genetic, but this is not always the case.
There are four possible causes of lactase deficiency, with two being genetics-related.
A lactase deficiency may cause various symptoms alerting you to a problem.
The severity of your deficiency and the underlying cause may worsen symptoms.
You may risk worsening symptoms if a lactase deficiency or lactose intolerance goes undiagnosed.
Excessive diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, while gas and stomach pain can be highly uncomfortable.
Speak with a healthcare provider if you think you have a lactase deficiency.
When Should I Take Lactase?
Be sure to follow the directions when taking lactase supplements.
better to take a lactase supplement before consuming dairy products.
Is It Safe to Take Lactase Enzyme Every Day?
Yes, it is safe to take lactase enzyme supplements every day, even before meals.
Typically, lactase enzymes will be taken before any meal or snack containing dairy.
But be sure to use lactase enzymes as directed.
Does Lactase Have Side Effects?
Lactase supplements are generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people.
Side effects of taking lactase supplements are not common.
Although rare, lactase supplements can trigger an allergic reaction.
There have been a few cases of lactase causing a severe reaction that requires emergency care.
If left untreated, anaphylaxis can lead to shock, coma, respiratory or heart failure, and death.
Lactase supplements are generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people.
Do not take lactase supplements if you are allergic to any of the active or inactive ingredients.
Collaborate with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you.
Sources of Lactase and What to Look For
Lactase is not widely found in food.
Typically, your body makes lactase for you.
But if you cannot make enough lactase, you may need to use a supplement.
Lactase supplements like Lactaid contain the digestive enzyme lactase.
Your body needs lactase to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.
You do not need a prescription to buy lactase supplements.
Lactase is not derived from dairy, so taking supplements is not a concern if you are vegan.
However, the coating that makes up some capsules may be made of animal-derived gelatin.
If this is a concern, look for products labeled as vegan.
Lactase supplements are generally recognized as safe and come with few potential side effects, precautions, or interactions.
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