What Is Hypolactasia?

Hypolactasia is a deficiency in enzymes that can lead to lactose intolerance and malabsorption. Adult-type lactase deficiency or lactase non-persistence is the most common deficiency in enzymes that can cause malabsorption of lactose and overall lactose intolerance. When bacteria from the undigested lactose ferments in the colon, an affected individual will experience gas bloating, loose stools, and an increase in motility. Motility is the word used for the contractions of the digestive muscles, and increased contractions mean more cramping and intestinal distress. Doctors diagnose hypolactasia by looking at genetics, clinical symptoms, and performing different tests.