Metabolism of lactose in the intestine and lactose intolerance in infants

LI Yu; WU Qingbin

doi:10.11852/zgetbjzz2025-0676

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Chinese Journal of Child Health Care ›› 2025, Vol. 33 ›› Issue (8) : 813-816. DOI: 10.11852/zgetbjzz2025-0676

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Metabolism of lactose in the intestine and lactose intolerance in infants

LI Yu, WU Qingbin

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Abstract

The metabolism of lactose primarily relies on the hydrolytic action of lactase, whose activity is regulated by genetic factors and developmental stages.Lactose intolerance can be classified into four types: primary, secondary, congenital, and developmental, with diverse clinical manifestations.Diagnostic methods include hydrogen breath test, lactose tolerance test, and genetic testing, but there is currently no simple and reliable standardized diagnostic approach.Treatment strategies encompass dietary modifications, enzyme replacement therapy, and probiotic supplementation.This article summarizes the metabolic mechanisms of lactose in the intestine, as well as recent advances in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of lactose intolerance.A deeper understanding of lactose metabolism is crucial for improving the management of lactose intolerance.

Key words

lactose metabolism / lactose intolerance / lactase / intestinal flora

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LI Yu, WU Qingbin. Metabolism of lactose in the intestine and lactose intolerance in infants[J]. Chinese Journal of Child Health Care. 2025, 33(8): 813-816 https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2025-0676

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