Determination of Lactose Intolerance and Effect of Supplementing Lactose Hydrolyzed Milk among Elderly Population of Urban Vadodara

Abstract

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose which may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms hinder nutrient absorption and cause discomfort. The objective of the study was to determine lactose intolerance and determine the effect of lactose hydrolyzed milk supplementation to lactose intolerants among geriatric population. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed to assess gastrointestinal symptoms post-consumption of various foods. Hydrogen breath analyser test (HBT) was conducted to determine lactose intolerance and further divided into mild, moderate, and severe categories of lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerants are supplemented with lactose hydrolyzed milk (LHM) for 6 weeks. The highest gastrointestinal symptoms were observed in 37.4% of the subjects’ post-milk and milk products consumption whereas cereal products exhibited the least (2.73%). HBT revealed that 55.5% of the subjects were lactose intolerant. A significant improvement (P < 0.05) in energy, protein, calcium, and fat intakes was observed post-supplementation by 3%, 3.30%, 43.62%, and 4.19%, respectively. There was an increase in normal category body weight by 6.7% post-LHM supplementation. No significant changes (P < 0.05) were observed in quality of life before and after intervention. Conclusion: Lactose-intolerance was 55.5% among the studied geriatric population. All the elderlies (100%) were able to tolerate LHM without experiencing any gastrointestinal disturbances for 45 days.