Health Risks of Lactose Intolerance

Research shows that there are potentially serious health risks associated with lactose intolerance. These health risks commonly occur from lactose intolerant individuals' deficiencies in consuming adequate amounts of nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients are most abundant in milk and other dairy products. Research shows that lactose intolerant individuals have a higher prevalence and risk for health conditions including:

• Osteoporosis
• Increased Risk of Fractures
• Hypertension
• Colon and Breast Cancer

The recommended calcium intake for men and women from ages 19-50 is 1,000 mg per day. Older individuals are recommended at least 1,200 mg a day. The recommended vitamin D intake for men and women is 1,000 IUs daily.

Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone development and strength. The primary argument supporting the consumption of dairy products stems from deficiencies in both these nutrients. Research indicates individuals that do not consume enough calcium or vitamin D are at risk for not having optimal bone accretion and bone mass which can lead to osteoporosis or fractures later in adult life. In children and teenagers, these deficiencies can have a significant impact on growth and bone strength. These issues are exacerbated when individuals avoid dairy products because of their lactose intolerance symptoms.

Studies have shown that lactose intolerance does not affect calcium absorption across the intestine. The only limiting factor for having adequate nutritional intake comes from dairy avoidance due to the symptoms of lactose intolerance. This concept is the same in older individuals where low calcium intake is believed to be the main contributor to bone weakness rather than calcium absorption.

Dairy exclusion diets may also affect other health outcomes such as hypertension and colon health. Increased levels of calcium or dairy products have been shown to decrease blood pressure. These nutrients are also believed to improve cardiac muscle contractility. Colon health has also been associated with calcium and dairy consumption for prevention of colon polyps, colon cancer, and reductions in colon inflammation.