Is it lactose intolerance or something else? How a DNA test can help

Bloating, cramps, and bathroom issues can make everyday life exhausting – especially when you don’t know what’s causing them.

If you regularly feel unwell after eating, it’s natural to wonder what’s causing your symptoms. For many people, the first suspect is lactose intolerance – a common digestive condition linked to dairy.

But here’s the catch: those same symptoms could be caused by something else entirely, such as celiac disease, IBS, or other food sensitivities. That’s where DNA testing comes in.

In this blog, we’ll explore how lactose intolerance works, what other conditions might be behind your symptoms, and how a simple DNA test could provide the clarity you’ve been looking for.

The trouble with digestive symptoms

Digestive problems can be difficult to live with, and even harder to diagnose. That’s because many different conditions can cause similar symptoms, including bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

These symptoms are common, but they’re not specific. Many people automatically assume lactose intolerance is the cause, especially if symptoms appear after eating dairy. However, that’s not always the case.

You might try cutting out milk, cheese, or ice cream, only to find that your symptoms continue. Or you might feel better temporarily, but not completely, leaving you stuck in a cycle of guesswork and frustration.

That’s why it’s so important to take a closer look at what’s really going on before making any dietary changes. Getting an accurate picture of your digestive health starts with understanding the potential causes – and that includes, but isn’t limited to, lactose intolerance.

What is lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive issue where the body fails to produce enough of the lactase enzyme required to break down lactose in the body.

Most mammals are born with the ability to digest lactose, because it’s the sugar found in mammalian breast milk. However, for people who are lactose intolerant, the body produces little to no lactase, meaning that the sugar remains intact and is fermented by bacteria in the colon.

This fermentation process causes unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes followed by constipation).

There is no cure for lactose intolerance, but the symptoms can be managed by adhering to a lactose-free diet.

Learn more: Everything you need to know about lactose intolerance

How does lactose intolerance testing work?

Primary lactose intolerance, the most common form of lactose intolerance globally, runs in families.

This means that you’re more likely to have lactose intolerance if you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with the condition. It also means that expert geneticists can analyze a person’s DNA to determine whether they’re likely to have primary lactose intolerance.

For an AlphaBiolabs Genetic Lactose Intolerance Test, our in-house scientists analyze cheek swab DNA samples to look for changes (mutations or variations) at specific locations of the MCM6 gene.

This gene helps regulate the gene that produces the lactase enzyme, which is needed for our bodies to breakdown lactose.

If certain variations are present within the MCM6 this indicates that the person has primary lactose intolerance.

If certain variations are absent within the MCM6 gene, then it is unlikely that the person has primary lactose intolerance.

What else could it be?

As mentioned, experiencing digestive symptoms doesn’t automatically mean that you have lactose intolerance. It could be several other conditions that share similar symptoms, making it tricky to pinpoint the exact cause without testing.

Here are a few common culprits:

Celiac disease

An autoimmune condition triggered by gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye). When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, it causes inflammation and damage in the small intestine, leading to symptoms like:

• Bloating
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Unintended weight loss

Like lactose intolerance, celiac disease is genetic, and symptoms can improve when the trigger food (gluten) is removed from the diet.

A Celiac Genetic Test from AlphaBiolabs will tell you if you have the HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes linked to celiac disease. The results of the test cannot be used as a diagnosis of celiac disease but can be used to rule out the possibility of celiac disease (if you do not have either of the genes associated with the condition), or to support further testing and diagnosis (if you have either of these genes).

Learn more: Everything you need to know about celiac disease

🧬 Want quick answers? Discover if you’re genetically predisposed to lactose intolerance or celiac disease – with one simple DNA test you can do at home. Order now.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects how the gut functions. It’s not caused by food intolerance, but certain foods (including dairy) can trigger symptoms in some people. These include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Gas
• Bloating
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both)

Unlike lactose intolerance, there’s no testing available to diagnose IBS, and symptoms can vary from person to person. Stress and lifestyle also play a significant role in IBS flare-ups.

Learn more: What is the difference between lactose intolerance and IBS?

Other intolerances or sensitivities

Some people react to other ingredients like fructose, FODMAPs, or food additives, which can mimic the effects of lactose intolerance.

These reactions are harder to identify and often require guidance from a physician or dietitian.

Find answers with at-home testing

Stop second-guessing your symptoms.

With AlphaBiolabs’ at-home DNA health tests, you can find out if you’re genetically predisposed to lactose intolerance or celiac disease – and take control of your health with confidence.

• Only $109 + FREE shipping
• Results in just 4-5 business days
• Simple cheek swab required

Order now and save $50 when you buy both tests together.

Alternatively, contact us on 727-325-2902 or info@alphabiolabsusa.com for more information.