Lactose Malabsorption and Tolerance of Lactose-Hydrolyzed Milk

Eleven lactose-intolerant patients were investigated in a double-blind crossover controlled study. In random sequence they received 500 ml of either ordinary cow milk (lactose content, 25 g) or the same amount of low-lactose milk (85% of the lactose hydrolyzed), which had been processed by Lactozym 3000 L for 24 h at 4 degrees C. A significantly increased blood glucose rise from fasting levels was demonstrated in the low-lactose tests. Similarly, a significant reduction of liquid stool frequency, abdominal colics, distention, borborrhygmia, and flatulence was demonstrated. It was concluded that further studies, including long-term treatment of lactose-intolerant children, are indicated.