Lactose Intolerance

Yes, I know. This seems to be a very strange topic for a blog post.

I’m selectively lactose intolerant. That’s more than you need to know already. The thing is, I’ve had “discussions” with people who stubbornly argue, without qualification, based not on real scientific evidence, but on what they selectively read in the media, and are absolutely convinced they know the facts, that Asians are genetically lactose intolerant.

Well, the fact is, lactose tolerance can be lost and regained (if you’re willing to put up with the discomfort to develop the tolerance again; I’m not). Some of us have a much lower tolerance threshold, but, according to some self-informed non-experts, all Asians are lactose intolerant, and that’s a fact. Of course, first of all, they mean East Asians. And second, of course it’s because dairy is not typical in their diets. And yet, milk is used in some desserts and most definitely in beverages.

Yes, many of us stop drinking dairy milk once it’s no longer necessary, and of course cheese is not part of our diet, either. HOWEVER, these non-experts ignore the popularity of milk tea or smoothies (made with milk) among Asians. Explain that! 

So, reader, I am asking for your views. Do you claim to be an expert beyond your area of expertise because you’ve read it in the media? Do you change your opinion when confronted by evidence, or do you stubbornly cling to your opinion despite the evidence?

As always, please keep it civil and relevant. I promise I will refrain from commenting on your experience, but I might be curious enough to ask questions to better understand your views.