Description

Genetic Test for Lactose Intolerance

The genetic test for lactose intolerance is designed to identify whether you have an inherited tendency to lactose intolerance caused by reduced lactase enzyme production. Lactose intolerance is a common metabolic condition in which the body is unable to properly digest lactose, the natural sugar found in milk and dairy products.

At-home genetic test for lactose intolerance using a simple finger-prick blood sample.

Lactase activity is typically high during infancy, when milk is the primary source of nutrition. However, after weaning, lactase production declines in most people worldwide. As a result, approximately 75% of the global population develops some degree of lactose intolerance during adulthood. The prevalence varies significantly by ethnicity, ranging from less than 5% in north-western Europe to nearly 100% in some Asian populations.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually appear 30 minutes–2 hours after consuming lactose-containing foods such as milk, cheese, yoghurt, or ice cream. Common symptoms include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, excess gas, and nausea. Importantly, symptom severity depends on the amount of lactose consumed and the individual’s remaining lactase activity.

This genetic test for lactose intolerance analyses a specific variation in the LCT gene, which encodes the lactase enzyme. The polymorphism -13910C>T (rs4988235) is strongly associated with adult-type lactose intolerance. Because this is a genetic test, results remain valid for life and do not change over time.

It is essential to distinguish lactose intolerance from other gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or milk protein allergy, as these conditions may cause similar symptoms but require different management approaches.

How the Test Works

The test is performed using a simple finger-prick blood sample, collected at home. Your sample is then sent to our laboratory for genetic analysis.

– Sample type – finger-prick blood
– Collection tube – purple top tube
– Labelling – first name, last name, and date of birth
– Documentation – completed request form must be included

Please note that this genetic test for lactose intolerance cannot be combined with other tests in the same transaction.

This test is suitable for adults and children and provides clear guidance to support dietary decisions and long-term digestive health.

Lactose intolerance or Milk allergy

Many people confuse lactose intolerance with a milk allergy, but these conditions are very different. Lactose intolerance affects how the body digests lactose, the natural sugar found in milk. It happens when the body does not produce enough lactase enzyme. As a result, symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain and diarrhoea may occur after eating dairy foods.

A milk allergy is different. It involves the immune system reacting to milk proteins, such as casein or whey. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, vomiting or breathing problems. In severe cases, a milk allergy can cause anaphylaxis and requires strict avoidance of milk proteins. Unlike lactose intolerance, a milk allergy can be serious and needs medical assessment.

If you think your symptoms may be caused by an immune reaction rather than lactose intolerance, you may wish to consider our cow’s milk allergy blood test, available here:

https://foodallergytest.co.uk/product/cows-milk-allergy-test