Increased allergies and intolerances
Why do you think cases of people with dairy allergies and intolerances may be on the rise? From the Spanish Nutrition Foundation we are told that the lactose intolerance it is not a recent fact. Lactose malabsorption occurs when the activity of the enzyme lactase located in the intestinal microvilli is reduced. In populations that do not consume dairy, lactase production is usually reduced by 90% during the first years of life, and in populations where dairy consumption has been maintained it allows lactase to be concentrated for proper lactose absorption. The prevalence of malabsorption varies by ethnicity. What is fundamentally happening is that there is a better diagnosis today.
“In recent years we are witnessing the rise of certain diseases, including allergies, which are probably related to important changes in our lifestyles. Recent publications relate these changes to alterations in our microbiota. intestinal, which is known as dysbiosis, and which is associated with a worse development and maturation of the immune system, “explains Rosaura Leis, who adds that food allergy and intolerance is not the same, although both are adverse reactions. In the first an underlying immune mechanism is demonstrated, while in the second it is not. “In the case of dairy products, the allergy is triggered by proteins, while the symptoms associated with intolerance are most often caused by lactose, the disaccharide in milk. An enzyme is needed for the absorption of lactose. , lactase, which is found in our gut.A high percentage of the population, variable depending on race, geographical distribution, etc., is losing this enzyme throughout life.However, we must keep in mind that most lactose intolerant people tolerate regular amounts of consumption, Especially if they are fermented dairy products, such as yogurt or cheese. Therefore, once again the importance of following the recommendations of health professionals, to ensure a healthy diet, “adds the expert.