Lactose intolerance refers to the condition where the body fails to digest lactose. Lactose is a form of natural sugar that is found especially in milk and milk products.
In individuals suffering from lactose intolerance, the lactose passes the large intestine without proper digestion. This can cause harmful symptoms such as gas, abdominal pain, and a sense of bloating. Some individuals having lactose intolerance fail to digest milk and its related products. Some of these individuals can consume milk products to a certain extent.
Lactose intolerance is more common in the adult population. It is more common among Native Americans, Asians, and Africans. Individuals of European descent are not easily affected.
Calcium is required for healthy bones. Individuals with lactose intolerance must learn to get enough of calcium without any discomfort.
Lactose intolerance happens when the small intestine fails to produce the enzyme known as lactase. Lactase is needed by the body to break lactose down and also to digest it.
The condition runs in families and is hereditary. Symptoms related to lactose intolerance manifest themselves during teen and adult years. Some individuals can consume milk products, without showing any symptoms.
In some cases, the small intestine fails to produce lactase after illnesses such as stomach flu or cystic fibrosis. Alternatively, the small intestine ceases production of lactase post surgery. In such cases, the condition can be permanent or temporary.
Newborns are seldom lactose-intolerant. In some instances, premature babies develop lactose intolerance because of the body’s inability to produce lactase. The condition subsides with the normal production of lactase.
Symptoms related to lactose intolerance can range from mild to severe. It depends on the quantity of lactase produced by the body. Symptoms manifest within 30 minutes to 2 hours post consumption of milk products. The following are some of the general Lactose intolerance symptoms:
- Bloating
- Stomach ache and cramps
- A rumbling sound in the stomach
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Individuals having gas, stomach ache, bloating, and loose motions may feel that they are lactose intolerant. An appropriate way to verify the truth is by avoiding consumption of all milk products. If the symptoms disappear, it may mean that you are lactose intolerant.
Feeling sick after consumption of milk does not always refer to lactose intolerance. However, repeated problems post consumption of dairy products may refer to lactose intolerance.
Sudden occurrence of lactose intolerance is also common. As individuals age, their bodies fail to produce lactase. Consult a doctor if you show any signs and symptoms related to lactose intolerance.
Tags: Intolerance, Lactose