What are lactose intolerance pills?

Everything you want to know about lactase in tablet, capsule and drops

Lactose and tummy troubles often go hand in hand. Fortunately, there is a quick fix for many situations: lactase supplements, popularly known as lactose intolerance pills mentioned. In this blog you'll read what they are, how they work, when to use them, approximately how much you need and what to look for in the store.

The short answer

Lactase pills provide the enzyme lactase That helps your bowels to lactose break down. They can cause symptoms of lactose intolerance reduce when you eat or drink anything with lactose. They work not at cow's milk intolerance or cow's milk allergy, because those responses are mostly with milk proteins to do.

Read the basics first if you are unsure what exactly you have: What is lactose intolerance and What is cow's milk intolerance. If you want to understand exactly what lactase does in your gut, also check out What does lactase do.

How do lactose intolerance pills work?

• What does lactase do: it cuts lactose into two smaller sugars so your body can absorb them. Without a cut, lactose stays in your intestines and bacteria go to work on it. That gives gas, cramps, bloating and diarrhea.
• When to take: swallow or chew the pill just before the first bite with lactose or at the first bite. If you eat a long time with lactose, you can take another later.
• How long do they work: often 30 to 45 minutes usable after ingestion. For longer meals, consider an extra dose.

You can read more background in our explanation of What does lactase do.

What types are there?

• Tablets or capsules: handy on the go. Sometimes chewable For when you don't want to swallow.
• Drops: to milk or cream treat beforehand. You add a few drops, leave it in the refrigerator for a few hours, and the lactose is largely broken down. This works well for coffee with milk or for pancake batter.
• Strengths: manufacturers often express quantity in FCC lactase units. On packaging, for example, you see 3.000, 5.000 or 10.000 FCC per tablet. The higher, the more powerful per pill.
• Composition: pay attention to excipients. Want to vegan or vegetarian, then choose plant-based capsules instead of gelatin. Also check that the product gluten-free is if that's relevant to you.

When to use and when not to use lactase pills

Do use In situations such as:

• You want to occasionally a cappuccino, ice cream or pizza with plain cheese.
• You eat out and can't be sure everything is lactose-free.
• You want to stay flexible on vacation.

Not suitable as a solution at:

• Cow's milk intolerance: you then respond to milk proteins. Lactase only helps against lactose. Read more in Difference between cow's milk allergy and cow's milk intolerance.
• Cow's milk allergy: avoid cow's milk completely. Always consult with your doctor.

How many lactase pills do you need and how do you take them?

Everyone is different, and products differ. Always use the directions on the package. This practical chart will help you get started:

• Small portion of lactose such as a splash of milk in coffee or a small dessert: start with a lower strength such as 3,000 to 5,000 FCC. If it does not work sufficiently, raise at next time.
• Average serving such as a cappuccino with regular milk and a cake with milk solids, or a bowl of yogurt: usually 5,000 to 10,000 FCC.
• Lactose-rich meal like pizza with extra cheese plus ice cream on top: sometimes 10,000 FCC or more needed, or spread your intake over meals.

Note: I am not a doctor and do not give medical advice. Use supplements wisely and consult with your healthcare provider when in doubt.

Timing tips

• Take the pill with the first bite or no more than a few minutes before.
• Eat your longer than 30 to 45 minutes through with lactose, take extra according to package.
• Combine your lactose-free dairy with ordinary products, then sometimes you have less needed.

Are there any side effects or risks with lactose intolerance pills?

• Generally well tolerated. Sometimes you notice some gas or bloating If the dose is too low.
• Allergy to excipients is rare, but check the label. Some tablets contain sweeteners or corn starch.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding: when in doubt, consult with your health care provider.
• Children: child-friendly dosages and drops exist. Coordinate use with a physician or dietician, especially in young children.

Choosing smartly in the store

• Check the FCC units per tablet or per ml of drops. Compare not only the price, but also the strength per dose.
• Read the ingredients. Some products contain flavorings or fillers that you may want to avoid.
• Choose a form that suits you: chewable tablet for travel, drops for home.
• Storage advice: keep cool and dry. In your bag is a travel box convenient.

Frequently asked questions about lactose intolerance pills

With lactase pills, do I always have clearance

No. They help with lactose, but not at milk proteins. At cow's milk intolerance or cow's milk allergy you can still get complaints.

Do lactase drops also work in plant milk

No. There is no lactose in plant-based drinks. When in doubt, choose products labeled lactose-free.

Can I take pills and still use lactose-free dairy

Yes. This is allowed together and may even mean less need pills.

Makes heating lactose harmless

No. Lactose remains present in pastry or sauce. You then still have lactase or lactose-free alternatives needed.

Useful combinations with other NooMooo blogs

• More background on digestion: What does lactase do
• Basic knowledge and symptoms: What is lactose intolerance
• Proteins versus sugars: What is cow's milk intolerance
• Smart label reading: Check the ingredient list
• Choosing cheese without the tummy hassle: Which cheeses contain high or low levels of lactose
• Fun fact for doubters: Is there lactose in egg

Lactase pills Are a useful tool for people with lactose intolerance who occasionally want to participate in regular dairy. They give flexibility, but are not a license to eat unlimited amounts of everything. Choose consciously, test what works for you and combine with lactose-free options. This keeps your tummy calm and your life nice and simple.

Note: I am not a doctor and do not give medical advice. Use supplements wisely and consult with your healthcare provider when in doubt.