Genetic test for lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance is the most common dietary intolerance in the European population, affecting approximately one in six people. The breakdown of lactose, the sugar present in milk, depends on the presence of the enzyme lactase in the gut. This enzyme is produced during childhood, but as a child moves on to solid food, the genes responsible for lactase production are gradually deactivated.
This process means that even children who are able to break down lactose during childhood develop lactose intolerance over time. Eventually, the body loses the ability to fully digest lactose, which may result in various symptoms. Undigested lactose is an excellent source of nutrients for bacteria in the gut, which multiply rapidly, causing symptoms such as bloating, cramps and diarrhoea, as well as non-specific symptoms such as fatigue or skin problems.
Lactose intolerance is often misdiagnosed because symptom severity depends on the amount of lactose consumed. Genetic testing can therefore help accurately identify an individual’s lactose intolerance, preventing further complications and allowing dietary adjustments to avoid discomfort.
More than 99% of lactose intolerance cases are caused by a genetic variation in the LCT/MCM6 gene. A person with two copies of this variation is most likely to develop lactose intolerance during their lifetime. The onset and severity of symptoms depend on many other factors, including the environment.
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Symptoms of lactose intolerance may occur after consuming dairy products or food containing lactose. Here are some common symptoms:
- Digestive symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or flatulence
- General symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting or a body rash
Questions answered by genetic testing for lactose intolerance:
- Is there a genetic predisposition that increases the risk of developing lactose intolerance ?
- What individual genetic factors affect the risk of developing lactose intolerance ?
- How do genetic factors affect the production of the enzyme (lactase) that breaks down lactose?
- What is an individual’s overall genetic risk for lactose intolerance?
Who is this testing intended for?
- People who want to better understand their genetic predisposition regarding lactose
- People who suspect or experience symptoms associated with lactose intolerance
- People who want to proactively adapt their diet based on their genetic profile
- People who experience gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming dairy products
Step 1.
Analysis of two relevant variations
Step 2.
Assessment of individual risk of lactose intolerance
Step 3.
Individual dietary recommendations based on the results
Step 4.
Interpretation and consultation with a nutritionist
Genetic test for lactose intolerance
