Evidence supporting the use of: Probiotics
For the health condition: Lactose Intolerance
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Probiotics, particularly certain strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have scientific support for aiding individuals with lactose intolerance. The mechanism involves these bacteria possessing β-galactosidase (lactase) activity, which assists in breaking down lactose within the gut, thereby reducing symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after dairy consumption. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that fermented dairy products containing live probiotic cultures, such as yogurt with active strains, are better tolerated by lactose-intolerant individuals compared to non-fermented milk. Furthermore, systematic reviews (e.g., by Szilagyi, 2015, and Shaukat et al., 2010) conclude that probiotics can modestly improve lactose digestion and reduce symptoms, although effects may vary by strain and individual response. The best-documented benefit is from Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum supplementation, either as part of fermented foods or as supplements. While probiotics do not cure lactose intolerance, they can serve as an adjunct to dietary management. The overall evidence quality is moderate to strong, with some heterogeneity in study results, but the use of specific probiotic strains for this purpose is generally considered scientifically justified.
Other ingredients used for Lactose Intolerance
bacillus coagulansbacillus subtilis
bifidobacterium bifidum
bifidobacterium breve
bifidobacterium lactis
bifidobacterium longum
bovine
lactase
lactobacillus acidophilus
lactobacillus bulgaricus
lactobacillus casei
lactobacillus fermentum
lactobacillus gasseri
lactobacillus paracasei
lactiplantibacillus plantarum
lactobacillus reuteri
lactobacillus rhamnosus
lactobacillus salivarius
lactococcus lactis
streptococcus thermophilus
Bifidobacterium
Buttermilk
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
Beta-glucosidase
Bifidobacterium animalis
Bacteria
Bifidobacteria
Bacillus
Galactosidase
Galactooligosaccharides
Other health conditions supported by Probiotics
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Acne
Allergies (food)
Allergies (respiratory)
Antibiotics (side effects of)
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Appetite (deficient)
Autism
Bladder Infection
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Colitis
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Diverticulitis
Eczema
Endurance (lack of)
Enteritis
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Giardia
Gingivitis
Indigestion
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Lactose Intolerance
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Mastitis