Lactose: Do you really need to cut it out to feel better?

Lactose: why consider total elimination in certain cases?

Lactose is a disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose, naturally present in animal milk. Its digestion requires an enzyme, lactase, whose activity physiologically decreases after childhood in approximately 70% of the world's population. This decrease, called hypolactasia, can lead to lactose malabsorption, responsible for various digestive symptoms: bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory imbalances.

What is a 100% lactose-free diet?

This involves excluding all products containing lactose, including sometimes unsuspected forms present in certain medications, industrial preparations or “light” dairy products. Ideally, all dairy products should be eliminated. This strict exclusion allows for a better assessment of the impact of lactose on the body, particularly in cases of chronic functional disorders.

Common clinical indications:

• Persistent digestive disorders with no identified organic cause

• Irritable bowel syndrome

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

• Hormonal acne and certain dermatitis such as eczema and psoriasis

• Hormonal disorders (particularly in women)

• Unexplained chronic fatigue

• Joint pain

Nutritional substitution and balance :

Lactose-free does not mean calcium-free!

Contrary to popular belief, a diet free of animal dairy products can still be rich in calcium, through green leafy vegetables, oilseeds, calcium-rich mineral waters such as Hepar, Contrex, or Courmayeur, or enriched plant-based drinks such as almond, soy, or rice.

In Chinese medicine, dairy products are often considered to generate dampness and mucus. Eliminating them is therefore consistent with the energetic management of digestive, gynecological, dermatological, and joint disorders, etc.

There you go 🥰 Take care of yourself ♥️