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Merck

The role of colonic metabolism in lactose intolerance.

European journal of clinical investigation (2008-06-25)
T He, K Venema, M G Priebe, G W Welling, R-J M Brummer, R J Vonk
ABSTRACT

Lactose maldigestion and intolerance affect a large part of the world population. The underlying factors of lactose intolerance are not fully understood. In this review, the role of colonic metabolism is discussed, i.e. fermentation of lactose by the colonic microbiota, colonic processing of the fermentation metabolites and how these processes would play a role in the pathophysiology of lactose intolerance. We suggest that the balance between the removal and production rate of osmotic-active components (lactose, and intermediate metabolites, e.g. lactate, succinate, etc.) in the colon is a key factor in the development of symptoms. The involvement of the colon may provide the basis for designing new targeted strategies for dietary and clinical management of lactose intolerance.

MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description

Supelco
Lactose, Anhydrous, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material
Sigma-Aldrich
Lactose, tested according to Ph. Eur.
Lactose (anhydrous), European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard
USP
Anhydrous lactose, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard