Lactose intolerance in IBS patients

Much has been written about the IBS and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.  Fewer studies have focused on the incidence of lactose intolerance in IBS patient in spite of the fact it is very common for these patient to self perceive that they are lactose intolerant.   A recent study evaluated 51 IBS patients using the hydrogen breath test to ascertain the prevalence of lactose intolerance. A total of 24 of 51 (47%) had a positive hydrogen breath test for lactose intolerance.  Furthermore, the researchers noted that patients with a high severity of IBS were more likely to test positive for lactose intolerance.

Ref: Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014 August

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25089542