Overview

Lactose intolerance is a common condition, with an estimated 65% of the world's population experiencing some degree of lactose intolerance. It can be diagnosed through a combination of symptom assessment, medical history, and lactose intolerance testing.

While there is no cure for lactose intolerance, it can be managed through dietary changes, lactase supplements, and the use of lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products. With proper management, people with lactose intolerance can continue to enjoy a wide variety of foods and maintain good health and quality of life.

 

What is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder characterized by the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, due to a deficiency of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose.

When lactose reaches the colon undigested, it interacts with bacteria, producing gas, and causing a variety of symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the amount of lactose consumed, the type of dairy product, and the individual's tolerance level.

Lactose intolerance can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and certain medical conditions such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease. It can also be a temporary condition that occurs after a gastrointestinal illness or injury.

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose lactose intolerance, including the lactose tolerance test, the hydrogen breath test, and the stool acidity test. Treatment options for lactose intolerance include avoiding or limiting lactose-containing foods, taking lactase supplements before consuming dairy products, and consuming lactose-free or low-lactose alternatives.

 

What are the four types of Lactose Intolerance?

There are three main types of lactose intolerance, not four. Here's a brief description of each type:

• Primary lactose intolerance: This is the most common type of lactose intolerance, caused by a natural decline in lactase production as people age. In most cases, symptoms don't appear until the age of five or later.
• Secondary lactose intolerance: This type of lactose intolerance is caused by damage to the small intestine, which can occur as a result of surgery, injury, or diseases like celiac disease or Crohn's disease.
• Congenital lactose intolerance: This is a rare genetic disorder in which babies are born without the ability to produce lactase, so they can't digest lactose. This condition is usually diagnosed in the first few weeks of life, and lactose must be removed from the baby's diet.

It's worth noting that there is another type of lactose intolerance, called developmental lactase deficiency, which is sometimes considered a fourth type of lactose intolerance. This type of lactose intolerance occurs in some babies of non-European descent, who may produce less lactase during a certain period of development. However, this type of lactose intolerance is temporary and usually resolves as the baby gets older.

 

What foods trigger Lactose Intolerance symptoms?

Lactose intolerance symptoms can be triggered by consuming foods that contain lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Some common foods that may trigger lactose intolerance symptoms include:

1. Milk (cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk)
2. Ice cream and other frozen desserts
3. Cheese (particularly soft and fresh varieties)
4. Yogurt and other cultured dairy products
5. Butter and cream
6. Whey and whey protein products
7. Some baked goods (such as muffins, cakes, and cookies) that contain milk or whey powder as an ingredient
8. Some processed foods that contain milk or milk solids as an additive, such as processed meats and snack foods.

It's important to note that lactose is sometimes used as an additive in non-dairy products, such as certain medications and protein bars, so it's important to read labels carefully to avoid lactose-containing foods.

Individuals with lactose intolerance may be able to tolerate small amounts of lactose or certain lactose-containing foods, depending on their level of lactase deficiency and tolerance. Some individuals may also be able to tolerate lactose better by consuming lactase supplements or lactose-free alternatives.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of Lactose Intolerance?

The signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance can vary from person to person and depend on the amount of lactose consumed. Some common signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance include:

1. Abdominal pain and bloating
2. Diarrhea or loose stools
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Flatulence or excessive gas
5. Stomach rumbling or gurgling sounds
6. Headaches or migraines
7. Fatigue
8. Irritability or mood swings
9. Muscle and joint pain

These symptoms usually occur within 30 minutes to two hours after consuming milk or dairy products. The severity of symptoms can vary, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms, while others experience severe discomfort.

 

How do you test for Lactose Intolerance?

There are several methods used to test for lactose intolerance. These include:

1. Lactose tolerance test: This test involves fasting for several hours before consuming a lactose-containing beverage. Blood samples are then taken over the next few hours to measure the level of glucose in the blood. If lactose is not properly broken down, the level of glucose will be lower than normal.
2. Hydrogen breath test: This test involves drinking a lactose-containing beverage, then measuring the level of hydrogen in the breath at regular intervals. When lactose is not properly broken down, it is fermented by bacteria in the colon, producing hydrogen gas. Higher-than-normal levels of hydrogen in the breath indicate that lactose is not being properly absorbed.
3. Stool acidity test: This test is typically used for infants and young children. A stool sample is collected after consuming a lactose-containing beverage, and the acidity of the stool is measured. Undigested lactose causes fermentation in the colon, producing lactic acid and other acids that can be detected in the stool.
4. Elimination diet: This involves removing lactose-containing foods from the diet for a period of time to see if symptoms improve. If symptoms improve, lactose intolerance may be the cause.

 

How do you fix Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a condition caused by a deficiency of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in the small intestine. There is no cure for lactose intolerance, but there are ways to manage the condition and alleviate symptoms. Here are some strategies:

1. Limit or avoid lactose-containing foods: This is the most effective way to manage lactose intolerance. It's important to read food labels carefully and avoid foods that contain lactose. Some people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose, so it may be possible to consume some dairy products in moderation.
2. Use lactase supplements: Lactase supplements are available in the form of pills or drops and can be taken before consuming lactose-containing foods. The lactase enzymes in these supplements help break down lactose, making it easier to digest.
3. Choose lactose-free or low-lactose alternatives: Many dairy products, including milk, cheese, and ice cream, are available in lactose-free or low-lactose versions. These products are made by adding lactase enzymes to the dairy to break down the lactose.
4. Experiment with non-dairy alternatives: There are many non-dairy alternatives to milk, cheese, and other dairy products, such as soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. These alternatives do not contain lactose and can be a good option for people with lactose intolerance.

 

How can I manage Lactose Intolerance with diet?

Managing lactose intolerance through diet involves avoiding or limiting foods and drinks that contain lactose. Here are some tips for managing lactose intolerance through diet:

1. Choose lactose-free or low-lactose alternatives: Many dairy products, including milk, cheese, and ice cream, are available in lactose-free or low-lactose versions. These products are made by adding lactase enzymes to the dairy to break down the lactose.
2. Experiment with non-dairy alternatives: There are many non-dairy alternatives to milk, cheese, and other dairy products, such as soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. These alternatives do not contain lactose and can be a good option for people with lactose intolerance.
3. Read food labels carefully: Lactose is found in many foods, including bread, cereal, and processed foods. It's important to read food labels carefully to identify foods that contain lactose. Look for words like "milk," "whey," and "casein" on the label, which indicate that the product contains lactose.
4. Consider lactase supplements: Lactase supplements are available in the form of pills or drops and can be taken before consuming lactose-containing foods. The lactase enzymes in these supplements help break down lactose, making it easier to digest.
5. Gradually increase lactose intake: Some people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose. Gradually increasing lactose intake over time can help the body adjust and improve lactose tolerance.
6. Talk to a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian: It's important to work with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized plan for managing lactose intolerance and to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced. They can provide guidance on food choices, lactose tolerance testing, and lactase supplements.

 

Can Lactose Intolerance go away?

Lactose intolerance caused by a genetic deficiency of lactase in the body cannot be cured. However, lactose intolerance caused by other factors such as injury or illness may go away over time as the body heals. In some cases, people may experience a temporary lactose intolerance after a bout of gastroenteritis or other illness that affects the digestive system. This is often referred to as secondary lactose intolerance, and it may go away within a few weeks or months.

Some people may also experience a reduction in lactose intolerance symptoms as they age. This is because the body naturally produces less lactase enzyme as it ages, which can lead to a gradual decrease in lactose intolerance symptoms. However, it's important to note that lactose intolerance is a lifelong condition for most people who have it, and it cannot be completely cured. However, symptoms can be managed through dietary changes and other strategies.

 

Are there any long-term consequences of Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance itself is not associated with any serious long-term health consequences. However, if lactose intolerance is not managed properly, it can lead to a number of issues. These can include:

1. Nutritional deficiencies: Dairy products are a major source of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients that are important for bone health. If dairy products are avoided entirely, it can lead to a deficiency in these nutrients, which can have long-term consequences for bone health and overall health.
2. Digestive issues: If lactose intolerance is not managed properly, it can lead to ongoing digestive issues such as diarrhea, bloating, and gas. This can be uncomfortable and interfere with daily life.
3. Reduced quality of life: If lactose intolerance is not managed properly, it can lead to a reduced quality of life due to ongoing digestive issues and difficulty finding suitable food options.

 

What is the difference between Lactose intolerance vs. Milk allergy?

Lactose intolerance and milk allergy are two different conditions that involve a reaction to dairy products, but they have different causes and symptoms.

Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of lactase enzyme in the body, which makes it difficult to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. People with lactose intolerance may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

Milk allergy, on the other hand, is an immune system reaction to the proteins in milk. This is a different type of reaction than lactose intolerance, which is a digestive issue. People with milk allergy may experience a range of symptoms, including skin rash, hives, digestive issues, wheezing, and anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.

The treatment for lactose intolerance and milk allergy is also different. Lactose intolerance can often be managed by avoiding or limiting lactose-containing foods, taking lactase supplements, or using lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products. Milk allergy requires strict avoidance of all dairy products and may also require carrying an epinephrine auto-injector in case of a severe reaction.

 

What’s the difference between Lactose Malabsorption vs. Lactose intolerance?

Lactose malabsorption and lactose intolerance are related but not interchangeable terms.

Lactose malabsorption refers to the inability of the small intestine to absorb lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This occurs when there is not enough lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, to digest the lactose. When lactose remains undigested in the small intestine, it passes into the colon where it is fermented by bacteria, producing gas and other symptoms.

Lactose intolerance, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses both lactose malabsorption and the symptoms that result from the malabsorption. In other words, lactose intolerance refers to the symptoms that occur as a result of lactose malabsorption.

It's important to note that not all individuals with lactose malabsorption experience symptoms of lactose intolerance. In some cases, individuals may have reduced lactase activity but still be able to tolerate small amounts of lactose without experiencing symptoms. In other cases, individuals with lactose malabsorption may be able to tolerate lactose-containing foods by taking lactase supplements or consuming lactose-free products.

 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder that affects the body's ability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. It is caused by a deficiency of lactase enzyme in the body, which can lead to uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing foods.

Lactose intolerance is typically diagnosed through a combination of symptom assessment, medical history, and lactose intolerance testing. While there is no cure for lactose intolerance, it can be managed through dietary changes, lactase supplements, and the use of lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products.