Efficacy of lactase-treated milk for lactose-intolerant pediatric patients

The efficacy of beta-galactosidase from Aspergillus oryzae was assessed on in vivo hydrolysis of lactose in milk in children (3-16 yrs.) who were lactose intolerant. The study consisted of two parts: in part 1, three capsules of a placebo were opened and mixed with whole milk within 5 minutes of ingestion. Patients with abnormal breath hydrogen tests were invited to participate in part 2. A commercial enzyme preparation, Lactrase, was used in part 2. All patients fasted for 8 hours and were given the breath hydrogen test. Findings showed evidence of improvement in clinical symptoms and lactose absorption in response to the addition of Lactrase to milk just before ingestion