What is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is the onset of gastrointestinal symptoms from the consumption of lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. The most common symptoms associated with lactose intolerance include gas, cramps, bloating, and diarrhea. Symptoms are caused by a lack of the naturally produced enzyme called lactase. The lactase enzyme is present in the small intestine and is responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose so it can be digested. When there is insufficient lactase in the small intestine, lactose cannot be digested and travels into the colon. Gut bacteria in the colon attempt to ferment lactose which causes uncomfortable symptoms.

Click on photo to enlarge.

What Causes Lactose Intolerance?

There are two commonly known factors which can lead to lactose intolerance. Primary causes include one's heredity. As infants mature, there is a genetically programmed decrease in lactase activity. This decrease in lactase production tends to be stronger in non-dairy consuming societies for example certain African and Asian populations. Symptoms of lactose intolerance typically become present in children and young adults but can also develop in older individuals. Secondary causes may include other less common factors such as intestinal parasites, chemotherapy, penicillin reactions, surgery, pregnancy, or dairy avoidance. In rare cases infants can be born with a genetic disorder that prevents the production of lactase.

What Are the Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance?

The most common symptoms associated with lactose intolerance are:

• Gas
• Cramps
• Bloating
• Diarrhea

Symptoms can be mild to severe depending on the amount of lactose consumed and lactase produced in your body. Typically symptoms can occur anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours after dairy consumption.

Common Foods that Contain Lactose

• Milk
• Ice Cream
• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Sour Cream