Can I take OptiBac Probiotics if I am lactose intolerant?
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest significant amounts of lactose, the predominant natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. Lactose intolerance usually results from a shortage of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose into simpler forms that can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. Most of the probiotic strains in the OptiBac Probiotics range are B-galactosidase positive, meaning that they act like lactase and help to digest lactose. Research shows therefore that it is a beneficial to take OptiBac Probiotics if you are lactose intolerant.
Strictly speaking, however, most of the OptiBac Probiotics products are not entirely dairy free. Many of the strains are cultured on a base of organic dairy & soy and then skimmed off for use in the capsules or sachets, meaning that traces of dairy remain in the probiotics. We therefore recommend the entire range for individuals who are lactose intolerant, but not for those who are severely allergic to dairy or who are strictly vegan.
For strictly vegan products in the range, see For daily wellbeing EXTRA Strength, For maintaining regularity or For bowel calm; neither of which contain any traces of dairy.