Breaking Down Lactose Intolerance: Which Cultural Groups Are Most Affected?
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body is unable to break down lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. While lactose intolerance can be found in individuals of all cultures, some cultural groups are more affected than others. In this article, we’ll break down lactose intolerance and explore which cultural groups are most impacted.
What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a condition caused by the lack of the enzyme lactase in the small intestine. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose for absorption into the bloodstream. Without enough lactase, undigested lactose moves into the large intestine, where bacteria ferment it, causing symptoms such as gas, bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.
Which cultural groups are most affected?
Lactose intolerance is more prevalent in some cultural groups than others. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, around 90% of people of Asian descent, 80% of people of African descent, 75% of people of Native American descent, and 50% of people of Hispanic descent experience lactose intolerance. In contrast, lactose intolerance is less common among those of European descent, with around 20% of individuals being affected.
This difference in prevalence can be attributed to genetics. The ability to digest lactose beyond infancy is a genetic trait that has developed more recently in some cultural groups, such as those of Northern European descent, due to a history of dairy farming and consuming milk products as a significant portion of their diet. In contrast, for other cultural groups where lactase persistence is not as common, drinking milk beyond infancy is not a cultural norm and, therefore, milk-containing foods might not be highly consumed.
How is lactose intolerance diagnosed?
To diagnose lactose intolerance, doctors might conduct a lactose intolerance test. This test involves drinking a lactose-containing liquid and then measuring the blood glucose level to evaluate lactase activity. Pieces of evidence have shown that some people might not appreciate lactose-containing foods due to other medical conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS). However, it is important to recognise that food sensitivity differs from lactose intolerance.
How to manage lactose intolerance?
While lactose intolerance cannot be cured, it can be managed by reducing lactose intake or taking lactase supplements before consuming dairy products. Individuals can also try lactose-free dairy products or plant-based milk alternatives. There is the possibility of looking at a wide range of food products that contain lactose but are marketed as suitable for lactose intolerance individuals.
Conclusion
Lactose intolerance affects millions of people worldwide, and its prevalence differs among different cultural groups. While lactose intolerance is more common in certain groups, it is important to note that everyone experiences it differently. Therefore, anyone who has dairy intolerances should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. With informed choices and proper management, lactose intolerance can be effectively managed, allowing individuals to continue to enjoy dairy products.
