What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose (milk sugar) and is caused by a deficiency of lactase – an enzyme released by the small intestine, which allows milk sugar to be absorbed into the blood stream. Most of the Cambridge Diet drinks and soups have a skimmed-milk base and are therefore not suitable for those with this condition. However, we have a range of lactose-free Cambridge Diet drinks and soups, made with soy milk. These are suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or who have a milk allergy.
It’s commonly estimated that about 30% of the world’s adult population suffers from lactose intolerance, though this may be even higher in patients with IBD. A much higher than normal fraction of Asians suffer from lactose intolerance. Lactose is a sugar found in milk, milk products, and foods made with milk. The enzyme lactase, normally produced in our intestines, breaks down lactose during digestion. Lactose intolerant people don’t produce enough lactase and therefore cannot digest lactose. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include a bloated feeling, abdominal pain, flatulence, and diarrhea shortly after consuming milk or milk products.
