Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem. Symptoms can include flatulence, diarrhoea, bloating, stomach pains and nausea within a few hours of consuming food containing lactose.

There are 4 types of lactose intolerance with primary lactose intolerance being the most common. This type is inherited and caused by a genetic fault; as such you are encouraged to get tested if family members are found to have the condition.

Although there is no cure, reducing your intake of lactose will help to control symptoms. Dairy products usually also contain calcium and vitamin D which are vital to maintain strong healthy bones, as such supplements are sometimes recommended if you follow a lactose free diet.

The LCT gene, which instructs the body to make lactase, is controlled by a nearby gene called MCM6. Lactase is an enzyme that digests lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. A lack of lactase activity can lead to lactose intolerance. Two genetic variants found within the MCM6 gene are known to affect lactase production. Testing for these variants can indicate the likelihood of lactose intolerance. The two variants we test for in MCM6 are C13910T and G22018A.