Understanding the Root Causes of Lactose Intolerance: From Subluxations to Gut Dysbiosis

Lactose intolerance is one of the most common digestive disorders globally, affecting approximately 65% of the human population. While many people may experience bloating, diarrhea, cramping and discomfort after consuming dairy, the underlying causes of lactose intolerance can be multifaceted.   There are multiple levels of dysfunction that can occur in the body when someone is lactose intolerant. Poor stress management, a diet high in processed foods can lead to subluxations, decreased vagal tone, enzyme deficiencies, digestion difficulties, leaky gut and dysbiosis of the gut microbiome in the small intestine.   Any or all of the above conditions can lead to lactose intolerance. 

What is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance occurs when the body is unable to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. The primary cause of this condition is a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in the small intestine. Without enough lactase, lactose remains undigested in the gut, leading to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Subluxations and Digestive Health

Spinal misalignments, or subluxations, can interfere with nerve signals between the brain and digestive organs. Upper cervical subluxations lead to sympathetic dominance and a decreased vagal tone to the gut.  A decreased vagal tone inhibits enzyme secretions in the stomach which can lead to leaky gut, inflammation in the gut and an imbalance in the microbiome.  Chiropractic adjustments have been shown balance the autonomic nervous system and increased vagal tone to the gut, strengthening digestion by increasing enzyme secretions.

Intestinal Inflammation and Leaky Gut

What happens in the small intestine is a result of what is not happening upstream in the stomach, proper digestion of foods.  Weak digestion leads to improperly digested foods, leaky gut and inflammation in the small intestine, where lactase is secreted by small intestine cells.  Without the proper secretion of lactase, people become lactose intolerant. 

Dysbiosis of the Microbiome

Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome, can also contribute to lactose intolerance. Research has shown that people with lactose intolerance often have a less diverse gut microbiome, with lower levels of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus. These bacteria help ferment lactose and can reduce symptoms of intolerance. Probiotics and prebiotics may help restore microbiome balance, improving lactose digestion.

Integrating Treatment Approaches

First you need to be examined by an Internal Health Chiropractor, like Dr. Keith Giaquinto to see where the primary cause is coming from.  Once the cause is identified, ruling out any infections, then the treatment becomes obvious.  A holistic approach to managing lactose intolerance may involve:

1. Chiropractic Care: Regular spinal adjustments help to balance the autonomic nervous system and increases vagal tone to the gut.  This will help support proper digestion and gut health.
2. Enzyme Supplements: Taking digestive enzymes and other supplements to restore the intestinal lining and decrease the inflammatory process in the gut is a must.
3. Probiotics and Prebiotics: Supporting a healthy microbiome can aid in lactose digestion.
4. Dietary Modifications: Cleaning up the diet is also very important in the healing process. 

Conclusion

Lactose intolerance is a multifactorial condition that involves subluxations, enzyme deficiencies, leaky gut, intestinal inflammation and an imbalance in the gut microbiome. By understanding the interplay between these factors, individuals with lactose intolerance can benefit from a holistic approach to treatment.  It's important to consult healthcare providers to explore the best treatment options tailored to individual needs. 

For more information or to book an appointment for a free screening, contact Dr. Keith Giaquinto’s Naperville office now.  Relief is just a phone call away!