Lactose intolerance is the inability of the body’s digestive tract to properly digest lactose, which is a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. The body needs lactase, an enzyme produced in the small intestine, to properly digest dairy products. If the person doesn’t have enough lactase in their body, digesting lactose can be a problem. Additionally, lactose intolerance can appear suddenly, at any stage of life. Most infants are born with the ability to digest breast milk (which contains lactose), but some patients may develop an intolerance to it over time.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance can appear quickly, sometimes within 30 to 60 minutes after eating. The severity of the symptoms depends on the individual as well as how much lactose was consumed. Some of the more common signs of lactose intolerance include:
Some more severe symptoms of lactose intolerance can include:
Diarrhea is one of the most common symptoms of lactose intolerance. It occurs because undigested lactose remains in your small intestine, which pushes water into the digestive tract. This water loosens the stool and can cause diarrhea and sudden urges to use the bathroom, as well as other digestive problems.
Genetics do play a role in whether you may develop lactose intolerance or not. Other risk factors include being of African American heritage, a personal medical history of other gastrointestinal disorders (such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)). If you have a relative who has problems with lactose intolerance, this heightens your chances of developing it as well.
Lactose is a combination of both glucose and galactose. The lactate enzymes in your body break down lactose into galactose and glucose. If there isn’t enough lactase to break lactose down, you will experience digestive problems. However, there are different types and causes of lactose intolerance.
If you’re experiencing digestive disturbances after you consume dairy products, you should inform your physician so that they can test for the condition. Some of the diagnostic tests your doctor may perform include:
Before you make an appointment with your doctor, you can always practice an elimination test. Eliminate all dairy from your diet for two weeks, and see if your digestive problems minimize or disappear.
All dairy products contain lactose, but it can also hide out in other foods that you may not be aware of. Lactose can be present in processed meats, desserts, chocolate, bread, cake, desserts, biscuits, cream sauce like alfredo, soups, sauces, and cookies. If your lactose intolerance is severe, it’s best to always read the label or ask questions when eating out before you make food choices.
The first-line therapy for lactose intolerance is to completely eliminate dairy from the diet. Your gastroenterologist can guide you on what foods to eat to replace the nutrients in dairy. However, if you don’t want to cut out dairy completely, your physician may suggest enzyme supplements, probiotics, and prebiotics. While it may be uncomfortable, it is also possible for some to expose your body to lactose often until your body adapts and is able to digest it.
