Lactose intolerance & how the test works
Our test starts from 4,950 HKD and results are issued in 2-4 weeks from receipt of samples at the laboratory. We also provide a genetic counselling service for an additional fee.
The inability to digest lactose results in what is known as lactose intolerance. It is a condition which is far from being uncommon in adults and you could well be one of those individuals suffering from the many unpleasant side effects of lactose intolerance.
This test analyses the LCT gene. The LCT gene encodes the instructions our body needs to make lactase. Lactase works by speeding up the process of converting lactose into more simple sugars. A mutation on this gene makes the individual unable to product enough lactase to break down any lactose ingested. The condition can span different severities which depend on the amounts of lactase produced by their bodies; the range is typically mild, moderate or severe reduction.
Results will help you understand the following:
- Whether you carry a genotype which places you at low or high risk
- Dietary recommendations, changes in lifestyle and further counselling or advice
- Description of what exactly lactose intolerance is and its prevalence in different parts of the world
- A complete list of symptoms as well as other conditions that could also have these symptoms.
Collecting samples
Collecting samples if by means of mouth swabs. Swabs needs to be rubbed inside the mouth for around 1 minute and then returned for testing. Everything necessary for the test will provided inside our kit. Once you have collected you DNA samples, you can send them back to us for testing.
Do you need this test?
If you suffer from any of the following symptoms after consuming milk, you may wish to consider this test:
- Abdominal pain
- Cramps
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Steatorrhea (excess fat in stool)
If you test positive, then you can adopt a low-lactose or lactose free diet, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Some individuals who are lactose intolerant can keep consuming small amounts of lactose without any problems.
A bit more information about lactose
Any word ending –ose is used in biochemisty to denote the names of sugars – maltose, glucose and fructose are just 3 examples. Lactose is a sugar found in milk.
Lactose is digested efficiently thanks to an enzyme called lactase. Lactose is digested in the small intestine, this organ produces the enzyme required to digest lactose. Once digested, it is broken down into 2 more simple sugars, which are more readily absorbed and better sources of energy:
- Galactose
- Glucose
New born babies produce high amounts of lactase in order to digest maternal milk. As the mother weans milk-feeding, natural lactase levels also decrease which results in lactose intolerance. Due to cultural practices that are many centuries old, humans continue to consume milk-containing products for their entire lives. We are, of course, the only mammals to consume milk beyond infancy.
Drinking milk in itself has no health benefits later in life. It is considered neither good for you or bad for you.
Other tests: Celiac Disease Genetic Testing
Celiac disease genetic testing can accurately confirm whether you have a genetic predisposition to celiac disease. If you suspect you have Celiac disease and all your symptoms seem to point to this condition, this test could be the ideal test for you. Read more about our celiac disease predisposition test.