Final answer:
The woman's symptoms are due to a reduced synthesis of the enzyme lactase. Lactose intolerance occurs when there is not enough lactase enzyme produced in the small intestine to digest lactose, resulting in symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and excess gas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The woman's symptoms are due to a reduced synthesis of the enzyme Lactase. Lactose intolerance occurs when there is not enough lactase enzyme produced in the small intestine to digest lactose, which is the sugar found in milk. As a result, undigested lactose enters the large intestine where it is fermented by bacteria, causing symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and excess gas.