Lactase Enzyme Supplementation Guidelines

Introduction to Lactose Intolerance Management

• Patients consuming less than 280 ml (0.5 pints) of milk daily typically do not require lactase supplementation, as this amount is generally tolerated even with lactose intolerance 1

Dietary Management and Supplementation

• Primary management should be dietary modification with temporary reduction or removal of lactose from the diet 1, 2
• For children with acute diarrhea and suspected lactose intolerance, use lactose-free or lactose-reduced formulas temporarily 2, 3
• Many lactose-intolerant patients can tolerate yogurt and hard cheeses, which contain lower lactose levels or beneficial bacteria 1

Diagnostic Considerations

• Do not rely on patient self-reports alone—they correlate poorly with objective evidence of lactose intolerance 1
• Consider secondary causes including celiac disease, gastroenteritis, NSAID use, and small bowel disease, which may cause reversible lactose intolerance 1, 4