Lactose intolerance: 'Is sourdough bread the cause of my lactose intolerance?

Tuesday 24 June 2008 10:52 BST
Comments
(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

"Having read your answer about lactose intolerance, I wonder if I am suffering from it. I am getting abdominal pain, cramps and gas after I eat sourdough bread (which I bake myself). I do not eat dairy products, but I have heard that sourdough bread contains lactic acid. Could this be the cause?"

Dr Fred Kavalier answers your health question:

Lactose is a natural sugar that is broken down in the small intestine into two other sugars – glucose and galactose – which are absorbed into cells. If you are lacking in lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, then the lactose will remain in the intestine. When it reaches the large intestine it begins to ferment, leading to the production of gases that cause wind, cramps and other symptoms. Sourdough bread does not contain lactose, so your symptoms must have another cause.

Please send your questions and suggestions to A Question of Health, The Independent, Independent House, 191 Marsh Wall, London E14 9RS; fax 020-7005 2182; or email health@independent.co.uk. Dr Kavalier regrets that he is unable to respond personally to questions.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in