Knowing More About Lactose Intolerance Can Only Help

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. It results from a deficiency of the enzyme that counteracts it which is produced by the cells lining the small intestine. When people with lactose intolerance consume dairy products, the undigested lactose is passed through the small bowel and into the colon. There it is metabolized by bacteria, producing gas and causing abdominal bloating, cramping, and diarrhea. The four main types of lactose intolerance include:

• Congenital lactose intolerance- A rare genetic disorder in which infants cannot digest lactose even after they have been weaned from milk.
• Secondary lactose intolerance-This is a consequence of another disease or condition that damages the small intestine, such as viral infections or celiac disease.
• Acquired lactose intolerance occurs later in life, often after an illness or surgery that affects the gastrointestinal tract.
• Primary lactose intolerance is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, which means that two copies of the defective gene must be present for the disorder to become apparent. It is extremely rare in adults but can occur in newborns.

Causes of Lactose Intolerance

Studies have identified several causes of lactose intolerance. Some of the main ones include:

• Genetics - Some genetic conditions can cause lactose intolerance. Some people with celiac disease may deal with secondary lactose intolerance. It can also occur in people genetically predisposed to inflammatory bowel disease.
• Surgery - Removal of a large section of the small intestine, such as done when treating ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, can lead to lactose intolerance.
• Aging - Our digestive systems become less efficient as we age, leading to lactose intolerance.
• Drugs - Certain drugs, such as antibiotics and anti-cancer agents, can cause damage to the small intestine and reduce enzyme production.
• Adverse Reactions - People who have allergic reactions to milk develop secondary lactose intolerance. It occurs when white blood cells in the body mistakenly attack the small intestine when they react with the components of dairy products.

Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance

If you’re wondering if you may suffer from lactose intolerance, there’s quite a few symptoms you can look for. 

• Abdominal Bloating - The most common digestive symptom is abdominal bloating. It occurs when lactose passes into the colon from the small intestine.
• Abdominal Cramps - Lactose intolerance is also often accompanied by abdominal cramps and pain resulting from the bacterial fermentation of undigested lactose in the colon.
• Vomiting - Lactose intolerance can sometimes lead to vomiting, as the bacteria produce too much gas and acidity in the stomach.
• Diarrhea - It is not uncommon for people with lactose intolerance to suffer from diarrhea, especially if they eat large quantities of dairy products in one sitting.
• Nausea - If people with lactose intolerance eat dairy products without adding artificial sweeteners, they get nausea and other unpleasant side effects, such as headaches or indigestion.

Dealing With a Lactose Intolerance Diagnosis

If it turns out you are lactose intolerant, it’s not the end of the world. There are still things that can be done to live on. Some options include: 

• Lactose-free Products - Major food manufacturers have produced lactose-free dairy products. These are available at most large grocery stores. Additionally, alternative sources of calcium, such as fish, dark green vegetables, and nuts, contain good levels of calcium that the body can easily absorb.
• Probiotic Supplements - Studies have shown that certain probiotics can help improve enzyme production and ease the symptoms of lactose intolerance.
• Lactose-free Milk Products - Manufacturers of soy and rice milk have added lactose cancelling enzymes to their products, making it easier for lactose-intolerant people to digest.
• Seek Treatment from a Doctor - In some cases, such as with too many dairy products in one sitting or greater than mild symptoms, the doctor may need to prescribe lactose counteracting enzyme tablets.

Lactose intolerance is a common and treatable condition. However, it is important that you visit a doctor early enough to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.