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If the enzyme, lactase, is no longer present in adequate
quantity in the body (Lactase deficiency), the lactose
reaches the lower section of the intestine (large intestine)
in the unconverted form and is then fermented there by the
intestinal bacteria with the formation of gas. Moreover, the lactose can cause
increased water flow into the large intestine.
This can lead to complaints such as, for example, stomach aches,
flatulence, feeling of fullness and lose motions after the
consumption of milk products and is then referred to as
lactose intolerance.
On account of the similarity of the complaints
lactose intolerance is often confused with an irritable
colon.
