Lactulose is a lactulose-based dietary supplement that can be used to combat constipation, as well as prevent their appearance in children, pregnant women and women after childbirth. Dietary supplement refers to prebiotics because it promotes the growth of bifidobacteria in the intestine.
Composition and action
The composition of lactulose includes only two components – lactulose (active ingredient) and water.
Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide made from galactose and fructose. Thanks to an artificially created bond, it is not destroyed by human enzymes.
A bit of history! For the first time, lactulose was accidentally bred in 1929 during the heat treatment of lactose with an alkaline solution, but it began to be used for medical purposes much later. In 1948, when studying the causes of constipation and dyspepsia in young children, the Australian pediatrician Petueli, as part of female milk, discovered a substance that was responsible for the reproduction of beneficial bacteria in the intestine. Later, in the course of the research, it turned out that when lactulose was added to infant formula, the content of bifidobacteria in the intestinal microflora of the child increased by 4 times. For the first time the substance for the treatment of children was used in 1951.
Further studies have only confirmed its effectiveness. And now lactulose, like other drugs based on lactulose, are considered the safest and most gentle remedy for constipation for children, pregnant and lactating mothers. The mechanism of its action is significantly different from traditional laxative drugs, since it is aimed at eliminating the cause of constipation, restoring the proper functioning of the intestine.
Peculiarity
Lactulose does not break down in the small intestine. In unchanged form, it enters the large intestine, where it is broken down into low molecular weight organic acids. They help to reduce the pH and increase osmotic pressure, which leads to fluid retention inside the intestine.
The laxative effect of the drug is due to a change in the consistency of feces. In addition, an increase in intestinal contents stimulates its peristalsis.
Unlike most laxatives, lactulose does not irritate the intestinal wall, but acts gently, therefore it is safe for future and young mothers and children. Under its action, the work of the intestinal epithelium improves, which has a positive effect on the functions of the digestive system.
The effectiveness of lactulose
In addition to the fact that the drug helps to gently get rid of constipation, it has other beneficial properties:
- Restoration of beneficial intestinal microflora. In the course of research, it has been proven that lactulose (active ingredient) promotes the reproduction of bifidobacteria. In addition, the number of beneficial bacteria increases several times.
- Suppression of harmful bacteria. The growth of bifidobacteria contributes to the inhibition of the activity of clostridia and other pathogenic microorganisms.
- Strengthening immunity. Against the background of the restoration of intestinal microflora, better absorption of vitamins and beneficial elements, an increase in the body’s defenses occurs. These changes also reduce the risk of oncology.
When to use lactulose for children?
Prebiotic for children is recommended for constipation, dysbiosis and other disorders of the digestive system. In addition, it can be used as an additional tool with weak immunity, if the child is often sick or has undergone antibiotic treatment.
It is recommended to use a dietary supplement for children from 1 year old, but the tool can be used even for constipation in newborns as prescribed by a doctor. For children, it is strictly forbidden to use drugs that stimulate the bowels, as they are addictive, so the dose must be constantly increased.
Lactoliuse has a moderate laxative effect due to an increase in intestinal content, but it has a positive effect on the microflora and peristalsis of the colon. Since the active substance is not adsorbed, the syrup is not addictive.
Lactulose during pregnancy and after childbirth
Digestive problems, in particular, constant constipation during the period of carrying a child are found in many women. Lactulose-based syrup (one of the few) can be used during pregnancy. Dietary supplement eliminates constipation and prevents their occurrence, while in recommended doses it is safe for women and the fetus.
Lactulose can also be a real find for women after childbirth, especially those who have undergone a cesarean section. The tool helps to soften the feces and prevents constipation, greatly facilitates going to the toilet, but it is not addictive and does not disrupt the digestive system. Getting the active ingredients into the mother’s milk is safe for the baby. For this reason, lactulose is one of the few laxative drugs that helps nursing mothers get rid of constipation, while it acts quickly and effectively.
How to apply?
Apply syrup should be during or immediately after meals. The dosage depends on the age of the person:
- Children from 1 to 5 years old need to take 2.5-5 ml.
- For children from 6 to 14 years, the daily dose is 5-10 ml.
- Children over 14 years old and adults need to take 15-20 ml.
With strong constipation in adults, it is sometimes allowed to increase the dose, but at the same time it is allowed to take no more than 40 ml per day.
It is advisable to drink syrup at the same time, for example, at breakfast.
Are there any side effects and contraindications?
Lactulose has no contraindications. The only exception is individual intolerance to galactose.
Important! If you are diagnosed with diabetes, be sure to consult your doctor before use.
Prebiotic does not cause side effects. In rare cases, after its use, there is a feeling of bloating, bursting in the stomach. Symptoms are significantly reduced or disappear completely with a decrease in dosage.
Lactulose is an effective laxative for adults and children, which is not addictive and has no side effects.
