After ingestion, the tablet dissolves in the stomach within a few minutes. Since Lactrase® contains a so-called “acid” lactase that can work well in the acidic environment of the stomach, the released lactase ensures that the lactose contained in the chyme is already split into glucose and galactose in the stomach (find out more).
The enzyme continues to work in the small intestine, where the two simple sugars can then be absorbed. The enzyme itself is not absorbed by the small intestine, nor does it have any effect on the organism. The effect of lactase takes place exclusively in the chyme.
For this reason, Lactrase® is harmless to consume, and there is no risk of adverse effects even with regular and long-term consumption. Lactrase® is therefore also suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women and children.
The activity of the lactase contained in Lactrase® is expressed in FCC units. The higher the FCC units, the more active the lactase – and the more lactose it can break down. According to a recommendation from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), at least 4500 FCC units of lactase should be consumed with each meal containing lactose. However, you should test for yourself what amount of Lactrase® is sufficient for you. This depends in particular on how much lactase your body produces itself and on the amount of lactose contained in the meal.
The following table shows the lactose content of common dairy products. You should test for yourself which amount of Lactrase® is sufficient for you. We recommend starting with two capsules or mini-tablets of Lactrase® 3300 or one capsule or mini-tablet of Lactrase® 6000 per 5 g of lactose in the meal.
| Food | Serving size | Ø Lactose per serving size | Recommended FCC units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cow milk | 200 ml | 9,8 g | 6.000 |
| Buttermilk | 500 g | 18,8 g | 11.500 |
| Whey, whey drinks | 200 ml | 7,2 g | 4.500 |
| Condensed milk | 15 g | 1,4 g | 1.000 |
| Cream, cream (sweet, sour) | 50 g | 1,6 g | 1.000 |
| Creme fraiche | 50 g | 1,4 g | 1.000 |
| Yogurt | 150 g | 7,0 g | 4.500 |
| Low-fat curd cheese | 200 g | 8,2 g | 5.000 |
| Cottage cheese | 50 g | 1,3 g | 1.000 |
| Kefir | 200 g | 9,5 g | 6.000 |
| Ice cream (with milk) | 75 g (1 scoop) | 4,5 g | 3.000 |
| Cream cheese | 50 g | 0,9 g | 500 |
| Processed cheese | 50 g | 2,3 g | 1.500 |
| Butter | 25 g | 0,1 g | 50 |
