Lactose 360°: From biology to emerging benefits
Designed for nutrition and health professionals, this 6th IDF Nutrition and Health Symposium 2026 will be held online on May 21 and is free to attend.
Two sessions featuring the same pre-recorded presentations and live panel discussions:
Session 1: 07:00 – 09:00 CEST
Session 2: 16:00 -18:00 CEST
Programme and registration link will be available soon.
Description:
Lactose continues to generate confusion among both consumers and health professionals. Although it is a naturally occurring sugar and a key component of dairy foods worldwide, persistent misconceptions about lactose digestion, intolerance, and its distinction from cow’s milk allergy often lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions—despite the important nutrients dairy provides. The 6th IDF Nutrition and Health Symposium seeks to clarify these issues by presenting a full 360°, science-driven exploration of lactose from a health perspective, spanning physiology, clinical practice, emerging research, and practical dietary guidance. By sharing evidence-based insights from international experts, the symposium supports informed nutritional and health decisions and highlights the vital role of dairy in balanced, culturally diverse diets.
The event will:
- Explain the physiological and genetic factors influencing lactose digestion and tolerance across the lifespan.
- Differentiate lactose intolerance from other conditions such as milk allergy or IBS and identify evidence-based dietary management strategies.
- Describe the nutritional and health benefits of lactose, including its role in bone, dental, and metabolic health.
- Summarize the impact of lactose on gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acid production and understand its implications for metabolic health and type 2 diabetes.
- Integrate mechanistic, clinical, and nutritional perspectives to inform patient guidance, dietary recommendations, and functional food development.
