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News Topical, Digital Desk : In your childhood, you enjoyed things like milkshake, ice cream, but with time, if you start feeling gassy or bloated after consuming milk or milk products, then it is possible that you have a problem of lactose intolerance. Actually, lactose is a type of sugar, which is found in dairy products and the body starts having trouble digesting it. Let us know a little more about this problem:-
Lactose intolerance is different from milk allergy
Lactose intolerance occurs when your body is unable to produce enough of an enzyme called lactase. This enzyme is produced in your small intestine, which breaks down lactase, but when it does not break down, it reaches the colon directly where it gets fermented due to bacteria. This causes gas, bloating, diarrhea and other problems. On the other hand, milk allergy is considered a serious reaction of the immune system. Lactose intolerance is a digestive problem , not a food allergy.
What are the symptoms
- Bloating
- abdominal pain or cramps
- nausea
- gurgling sound from stomach
They are at greater risk
About 65-70% of people in the world lose the ability to digest lactose after childhood. Anyone can have lactose intolerance and these people are at greater risk:-
- Lactase deficiency is due to genetics
- Secondary lactose intolerance may be due to a digestive problem
- have had bowel surgery or cancer treatment
This is how identification happens
- Hydrogen breath test: After consuming lactose, you breathe into a device that tests hydrogen levels. High levels of hydrogen indicate lactose intolerance.
- Stool acidity test: In this, the acid in the stool is checked. This acid indigestion is caused by milk or milk products. Usually this method is used to test newborns or small children.
Can lactose intolerant people consume dairy products?
Many people who have lactose intolerance still consume small amounts of dairy. It's important to see which dairy products trigger your symptoms. You can:
- Start by consuming small portions throughout the day.
- Choose yogurt with live cultures, as the probiotics can help you digest lactose.
- Minimize the intake of milk, soft cheese and ice cream. These contain the highest amount of lactose.
- Before buying food items, read the ingredients written on their labels. Sometimes some processed foods also contain milk products.
Diet may have an effect
Lactose intolerance can affect your diet, so you need to keep an eye on the nutrients you are taking. If you give up all dairy products, your body may also lack calcium and vitamin D. You can make up for these nutritional deficiencies with other food items. This becomes even more important for growing children, so do consult their doctor.
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