THE FUTURE FOR CONTROLLING SYMPTOMS OF LACTOSE INTOLERANCE

There are new tests available to make a diagnosis when a person is experiencing symptoms of lactose intolerance. DNA can be taken from the individual and analyzed to diagnose lactose intolerance. This is a rather pricey test and can take a long time to complete.
Scientists discovered in 1998 a way to manipulate a lactose intolerant rat's gene. By transferring the gene for lactase to the lining cells in the intestine. This type of gene therapy will hopefully be adapted for an application for a human being.

Long Term Effects of Lactose Intolerance
If a person with symptoms of lactose intolerant are left untreated; there are many things that can over time harm the body. The most harmful thing a person can do if are experiencing symptoms of lactose intolerance is to avoid milk products and not take vitamin D and calcium supplements to reach the appropriate dietary amounts required.

Vitamin D: This can be normally absorbed through adequate sun exposure as vitamin D synthesis is promoted in the skin from the sunlight. Vitamin D is a vitamin that helps with metabolism of phosphorus and calcium, and intestinal absorption. Vitamin D deficiency can result in bone weakness or Osteomalacia in adults and bone deformity or known as rickets in children. Lack of Vitamin D can be supplemented with Vitamin D capsules that can be taken orally.

Calcium Deficiency: This is when a person has not been having the daily amount of calcium required for a healthy diet. A low level of calcium in their blood can result in abdominal cramps, hand and feet spasms, soft bones, osteoporosis, poor mineralisation of bones and in children can result in impaired growth and rickets.

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