Is Lactose Intolerance Genetic—or Can It Be 'Cured'?
Short answer: It's genetic. And no, probiotics won't fix it.
The Reality / Science
Lactose intolerance is determined by your genes. Specifically, whether your body continues producing lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose) after childhood. This trait, called lactase persistence, is inherited. About 65% of humans lose lactase production after weaning—it's the biological norm.
Probiotics don't restore lactase production. They can't rewrite your DNA. Lactase supplements help temporarily break down lactose in food, but they don't change your body's ability to produce its own enzyme. Gradual exposure doesn't build tolerance; it just teaches you which amounts cause discomfort.
"Lactase persistence is a genetic trait controlled by the MCM6 gene. It cannot be reversed or acquired through diet or supplementation." — NIH National Center for Biotechnology Information (PubMed)
Why the Myth Persists
Hope. Parents want a "fix" for their child's condition. The supplement industry profits from this hope. Wellness influencers claim probiotics cure everything. But lactose intolerance isn't a disease to cure—it's a normal variation in human digestion. Accepting that is more powerful than chasing a false cure.
Parental Perspective
You might feel like you're supposed to "fix" your child's lactose intolerance. You're not. Your child's genetics are working exactly as designed. What you *can* do is help them manage symptoms, find foods that work, and build confidence around their body's needs. That's not settling—that's smart parenting.
Takeaway / Action Tip
- Lactase supplements: Temporary help for specific meals (not a cure).
- Fermented dairy: Yogurt and cheese have less lactose naturally.
- Dairy-free alternatives: The most reliable, long-term solution.
- Symptom tracking: Learn your child's personal tolerance level.
Skip: Expensive probiotic "cures," enzyme pills marketed as permanent fixes, or guilt-driven attempts to force dairy tolerance.