Lactose Intolerance: The "Dairy Dilemma"
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder, not a food allergy.
It occurs when the body cannot properly digest lactose, which is a type of sugar found
in milk and dairy products.
This inability to digest lactose is due to a deficiency of the enzyme
lactase.
The Role of Lactase and Lactose
Lactose is a double sugar (disaccharide) made of two simpler sugars: glucose and
galactose. For the body to absorb and use it for energy, lactose must be broken down.
Lactase is an enzyme produced in the small intestine that breaks the bond in lactose,
splitting it into glucose and galactose.
People who are lactose tolerant have enough lactase to break down the sugar, while
those who are lactose intolerant have a deficiency of this enzyme.
The Process of Intolerance
When there is not enough lactase, the lactose remains undigested and travels to the
large intestine.
Bacteria in the large intestine then ferment this undigested lactose.
This fermentation process creates gas and fluid, which leads to the symptoms of
intolerance.
Types of Lactose Intolerance
Primary: This is the most common type and is a natural decline in lactase production
as a person ages.
Secondary: This type is caused by damage to the small intestine, often from an
illness or injury.
Congenital: A rare genetic disorder where a person is born with little to no lactase.
Developmental: This is seen in premature babies and is usually temporary.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear between 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy.
Bloating and abdominal cramps.
Excessive gas.
Diarrhea.
Nausea.
Pain or cramps in the lower belly.
Gurgling sounds.
Loose stools.
How Lactose Intolerance is Diagnosed
Hydrogen Breath Test: This is the most common and accurate test.
Lactose Tolerance Test: This test measures the body's blood sugar response after
you consume lactose.
Elimination Diet: A doctor-supervised method where you temporarily remove dairy
from your diet to see if your symptoms improve.
