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Are You Lactose Intolerant? Health Experts Explain How Lactase Supplements Work To Help You

As a person with lactose intolerance, I can tell you one thing: It's no fun living as a human gas bag. In this age of inclusivity, this is one club I wish were more exclusive. But no, it welcomes one and all – or about nine in every 10 Singaporeans, said Dr Kewin Siah, a senior consultant with National University Hospital's Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

My conferred club membership is thanks to my Asian genes. Somewhere along the human evolutionary path, many East Asians didn't develop a mutation that allows our bodies to keep producing the milk-digesting enzyme, lactase, right into adulthood. Unlike our Caucasian friends.

Instead, once we get weaned off milk as babies, our ability to digest lactose, which is natural milk sugar, starts to taper off, said Dr Webber Chan, a gastroenterologist from Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, leading to lactose malabsorption.

"Lactose malabsorption occurs when the body has trouble digesting or absorbing lactose in the small intestine," said Dr Chan. The "undigested lactose interacts with the bacteria in the colon, creating gas and other fermentation by-products, leading to abdominal cramps, bloating and diarrhoea".

Sometimes, lactose malabsorption can be caused by issues affecting the small intestine "such as infections, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or inflammatory bowel disease", said Dr Chan.

Are Dogs Lactose Intolerant? What Experts Advise About Feeding Dogs Dairy

If you're no stranger to the canine side of the Internet, you've undoubtedly seen several viral videos of dogs enjoying pup cups from their favorite coffee chains. These delicious treats are just cups of whipped cream, but it's led many folks to ask an important question: are dogs lactose intolerant?

Much like the speculation that cats love cream (adult cats are most often lactose intolerant), there are many questions surrounding dogs' ability to digest dairy products. Luckily, we are here to debunk myths and answer questions so you can know what's safe to feed your furry friend.

Are Dogs Lactose Intolerant?

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Not all questions have simple, yes or no answers—including this one. While many dogs are lactose intolerant, many are not! Lactose intolerance develops as a dog grows up, so it can be impossible to tell whether or not a puppy will tolerate dairy as an adult.

Why Are Some Dogs Lactose Intolerant?

Since puppies drink their mother's milk, their bodies produce lactase, an enzyme that helps them digest the lactose sugars found in milk. Once they are weaned, however, they stop producing this enzyme. Some dogs produce significantly less, while other dogs produce none at all. Those who produce none can no longer digest lactose sugars in dairy products, making them lactose intolerant.

Dogs who still produce lactase enzymes can still have digestive problems related to dairy, though they're bound to be a lot less severe. Without the enzymes (or with just a small amount), the lactose sugar is able to sit and ferment, causing problems.

Signs of Canine Lactose Intolerance

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Lactose Intolerance in dogs looks similar to lactose intolerance in humans, with a myriad of digestive symptoms to deal with.

Common symptoms of lactose intolerance in dogs include:

- Diarrhea and vomiting

- Lack of appetite

- Bloating and passing gas

These symptoms will begin within 12 hours of dairy consumption, so you may have to think further back than a few hours when determining what's behind your dog's tummy troubles.

How To Tell If Your Dog Is Lactose Intolerant

The best way to determine if your dog is lactose intolerant is by introducing it into their otherwise consistent diet. Before experimenting, be sure that their diet stays the same every day and causes no other digestive issues. Once you're sure you're on the right track, you can try feeding your dog a small portion of dairy. Change nothing else about their diet! If they experience digestive issues within 12 to 24 hours of consuming dairy products, lactose intolerance could be the culprit. This is a good thing to know before sharing people food with your dog!

Lactose Intolerance v. Dairy Allergy

Some dogs are lactose intolerant, but a few dogs are actually allergic to lactose. Those with an allergy will experience more severe symptoms than those who are simply intolerant, though some of the gastrointestinal symptoms can look the same. Dairy allergies also manifest in hives, rashes, and even respiratory issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your dog's veterinarian or take them to an emergency vet immediately.

What Milk Products Can Dogs Eat?

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Because milk tends to have a higher lactose content than its by-products, some dogs can tolerate dairy products like cheese better than milk itself. If your dog does well with cheese—great!—but even those who are not lactose intolerant should consume dairy products in moderation. This is because milk and its products can be naturally high in fat, which causes its own plethora of concerns.

Although yogurt can have wonderful probiotic properties, it shouldn't be used as a dog's main source of probiotics and digestive enzymes. Your pup would have to consume a lot of yogurt for it to be helpful! Plain yogurt can be an excellent treat for dogs, but it's essentially empty calories.

Milk alternatives, especially goat's milk, can also contain less lactose than regular milk, so it can be a good addition to the canine diet. Be sure not to share any milk products that contain sweeteners or flavors, however, as they can contain additives that aren't healthy for dogs to consume.

All in all, dairy products can make great treats for dogs who aren't lactose intolerant. The canine diet doesn't rely on dairy, however, so those who can't consume milk truly aren't missing out!

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Plant-Based Beverages Do Not Replace Cow's Milk Unless You Are Intolerant

A recent study conducted by the University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with the University of Brescia in Italy, challenges the common belief that plant-based beverages are healthier than cow's milk. The research, published in the journal Food Research International in November 2024, reveals that beverages made from seeds are not as nutritious as cow's milk. (saludprimero.Mx)

Processing and Nutritional Quality

The study analyzed how chemical reactions during processing affect the nutritional quality of ten different plant-based beverages compared to cow's milk. It found that the intensive processing of plant-based beverages leads to chemical reactions that degrade protein quality and, in some cases, produce potentially harmful compounds. 

Protein Content and Essential Amino Acids

One of the key findings is that plant-based beverages have a lower content of proteins and essential amino acids compared to cow's milk. This is partly due to the intensive processing they undergo, which diminishes their nutritional value.

Consumer Misconceptions

The findings challenge the widespread belief that plant-based beverages are inherently healthier than cow's milk. While these beverages can serve as alternatives for people with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies, they do not necessarily provide the same nutritional benefits. 

Recommendations for Consumers

Experts suggest that consumers should be well-informed about the nutritional differences between cow's milk and plant-based beverages. It is essential to read product labels and consider factors such as protein, vitamin, and mineral content when choosing between the two.

Conclusion

While plant-based beverages provide a viable alternative for those seeking non-dairy options, they should not automatically be assumed to be healthier than cow's milk. This study underscores the importance of making informed choices based on the nutritional profile of each product, rather than relying on general perceptions.

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