DNA Lactose Intolerance Test
$149
Discover Your Dairy Tolerance
Are dairy products causing you discomfort? Our Lactose Intolerance DNA Test helps you understand your body’s ability to process lactose, the sugar found in milk.
- Find Clarity on Dairy: Determine if your genes predispose you to lactose intolerance or lactase persistence.
- Targeted Genetic Analysis: Tests for five common variants in the MCM6 gene to provide clear insights.
- Easy & Private: Collect your sample with a simple mouth swab and receive confidential online results.
How it Works
Order your DNA Kit
Place your order online, and we’ll send you a DNA test kit with everything you need to collect your samples.
Collect DNA Samples
Follow the detailed, step-by-step instructions to collect DNA samples using the provided mouth swabs.
Lab Analysis
Use the provided return envelope to mail your DNA samples to our laboratory for analysis.
Receive Results
Download your results from your secure online account as soon as they’re ready.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive issue where the body has difficulty fully digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This happens because of a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose in your body.
Lactase converts lactose into simple sugars in the small intestine. Most people naturally produce less lactase as they get older, which can make it harder to enjoy dairy products like ice cream, cheese, or yogurt.
If you have lactose intolerance, you might feel these things after eating or drinking dairy:
- Bloating and gas
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
The severity of these symptoms depends on the amount of lactose consumed, the level of lactase your body produces, and even the types of bacteria in your gut.
The Genetics of Dairy Digestion
Why do some people struggle to digest dairy as they age? For most, it’s because their bodies produce less lactase over time, and this change is largely influenced by genetics.
The MCM6 gene acts like a switch that controls when and how much lactase is produced by our bodies. Some people have variations in this gene that allow them to keep producing lactase into adulthood, a condition known as lactase persistence.
Lactase persistence is more common in populations with a long history of dairy consumption, such as those in Europe and certain parts of Africa. These groups are more likely to carry variations in the MCM6 gene that allow them to continue enjoying dairy products without discomfort.
Your Lactose Test Results Explained
Your DNA Lactose Intolerance Test looks for changes in yourMCM6gene that are linked to lactase persistence. Knowing if you have these changes can help you understand how your body handles dairy. Here’s a breakdown of the changes (variants) that the test looks for:
| Gene | Variants | Description |
|---|---|---|
| MCM6 | rs4988235 | Commonly associated with lactase persistence in European populations |
| MCM6 | rs41380347 | Linked to lactase persistence often found in East African populations |
| MCM6 | rs145946881 | Linked to lactase persistence in some European and Middle Eastern populations |
| MCM6 | rs182549 | Commonly associated with lactase persistence and in Arabian populations |
| MCM6 | rs41525747 | Linked to lactase persistence found widely in East Asian populations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I learn from the DNA Lactose Intolerance Test?
This test will reveal your genetic likelihood of being lactose intolerant. By analyzing the MCM6 gene, it determines your body’s ability to produce the lactase enzyme, which is necessary for digesting lactose, the sugar found in dairy products.
Who should take this test?
If you experience symptoms like gas, bloating, stomach cramps, or diarrhea after consuming dairy, this test can provide valuable insight. It is also suitable for anyone who is simply curious about their genetic predisposition to lactose intolerance.
How do my genes determine if I am lactose intolerant?
Lactase production naturally decreases after infancy for most people. However, some people have a genetic variant in the MCM6 gene that allows them to continue producing lactase throughout their adult life, a trait called lactase persistence. If you have two copies of the “normal” gene without this variant, you are genetically predisposed to be lactose intolerant in adulthood.
What will the results of the test tell me?
Your results will tell you which copies of the MCM6 gene you have inherited. The report will indicate if you have two copies of the normal gene (likely lactose intolerant), two copies of the variant gene (likely to have lactase persistence and tolerate dairy), or one of each (typically have lactase persistence, though some sensitivity is possible).
Is this test a diagnosis for lactose intolerance?
This test identifies the genetic markers associated with lactose intolerance, providing a strong indication of your predisposition. However, for a formal medical diagnosis, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your results and symptoms.
What is the difference between lactose intolerance and a dairy allergy?
Lactose intolerance is a digestive issue caused by the inability to break down lactose, the sugar in milk. A dairy allergy is an immune system reaction to the proteins in milk. This test specifically looks at the genetic markers for lactose intolerance.
Is your testing facility reputable and accredited?
How will I receive my results?
How long does it take to get results?
Once your sample is received by our laboratory, processing usually takes 6-8 weeks. You will receive an email notification when your results are ready, and you can access your detailed report through a secure online portal.
Is the testing process confidential?
Yes, your confidentiality is guaranteed. From the discreet packaging of the test kit to the secure delivery of your results, we ensure your privacy is protected every step of the way.
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