What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder where the body cannot efficiently digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This occurs due to a deficiency of lactase, the enzyme required to break down lactose in the digestive system. When lactose remains undigested, it leads to gastrointestinal discomfort and symptoms.
What Causes Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is primarily caused by a decrease in lactase production in the small intestine, which can occur due to several reasons. The most common cause is genetic, where lactase production decreases after childhood, a condition known as primary lactose intolerance. Secondary lactose intolerance can result from illnesses or injuries that affect the small intestine, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or gastroenteritis. In some cases, lactase deficiency is present from birth due to a rare genetic disorder.
What are the Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance?
Symptoms of lactose intolerance typically appear within 30 minutes to two hours after consuming lactose-containing foods or beverages. Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, gas, abdominal cramps, and nausea. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the amount of lactose consumed and the level of lactase deficiency. These symptoms result from the fermentation of undigested lactose by bacteria in the colon.
How is Lactose Intolerance Diagnosed?
Diagnosing lactose intolerance involves a combination of patient history, symptom assessment, and diagnostic tests. The hydrogen breath test is commonly used, where the patient consumes a lactose-containing drink and breath samples are analyzed for hydrogen levels, which increase with lactose malabsorption. Another method is the lactose tolerance test, which measures blood glucose levels after lactose consumption. If glucose levels do not rise, it indicates inadequate lactose digestion. In some cases, a stool acidity test may be used, particularly for infants and young children.
How is Lactose Intolerance Treated?
Treatment for lactose intolerance focuses on managing symptoms through dietary adjustments. Reducing or eliminating lactose-containing foods from the diet is the primary approach. Lactase enzyme supplements can help some individuals digest lactose more effectively when taken before consuming dairy products. Additionally, lactose-free and lactose-reduced dairy products are widely available. Ensuring adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D from other sources is important for maintaining bone health. Consulting with a dietitian can help create a balanced diet that meets nutritional needs while avoiding lactose.
