Intolerância à lactose e ingestão de cálcio

Abstract

This paper aims to present an criticism updated review about lactose intolerance and adequate calcium intake. An exploratory study like literature review was conducted, from studies with human, published from 1998 to the present day, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. References were collected from the PubMed database. Studies have shown that lactose intolerant individuals ingest less calcium than the tolerant. It is necessary an accurate diagnosis so people with self-reported lactose intolerance, which actually are not intolerants, do not unduly restrict their diet and thus have an inadequate intake of calcium. For those who are really intolerants is important that they are managed the right way regarding the consumption of lactose containing products, followed by some strategies that can reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and also about the possible use of exogenous lactase, as pharmacological treatment. For those who cannot achieve the dietary reference intakes for calcium through diet, the use of supplements may also be indicated.