About Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is due to lactose malabsorption. This occurs when the small intestine produces low levels of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose. As a result, undigested lactose passes into the colon, where bacteria break it down, leading to fluid and gas production.
The non-modifiable risk factors for lactose intolerance are factors that cannot be changed. These include:
- Genetic factors: Certain genetic conditions can lead to low levels of lactase in the small intestine and lactose malabsorption.
- Age: Lactase levels naturally decrease with age, so symptoms of lactose intolerance may not begin until later childhood, the teen years, or early adulthood.
- Ethnicity: Lactose intolerance is more prevalent in certain populations, including those with Asian, African, or Hispanic ancestry.
- Premature birth: Being born prematurely can be a risk factor for lactose intolerance.
The modifiable risk factors for lactose intolerance are factors that can be influenced or changed. These include:
- Intestinal diseases: Conditions like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can increase the risk of lactose intolerance.
- Bowel surgery or injury: Surgical procedures or injuries to the small intestine can affect lactase production.
It's important to note that these risk factors increase the likelihood of developing lactose intolerance but do not guarantee its occurrence. If you suspect you have lactose intolerance or have concerns about your risk factors, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and guidance.
The most common early symptoms of lactose intolerance include:
- Watery, bulky, odd-smelling stools
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Cramps
- Bloating
- Flatulence that begins about 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose-containing foods or drinks
As lactose intolerance progresses or reaches higher severity, the following symptoms may occur:
- Diarrhea (due to undigested lactose in the small intestine)
- Urgent need to go to the toilet
- Vomiting
- Lower belly pain
- Constipation
The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the amount of lactose consumed and individual tolerance levels. It's important to note that symptoms are typically brief and can be managed through dietary modifications and lactase supplements. If you experience these symptoms, it's best to consult with your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized advice.
To diagnose lactose intolerance, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Physical examination: Doctors check for abdominal tenderness, pain, and bloating.
- Medical history: Doctors consider the person's symptoms and medical history.
- Dietary elimination: This involves eliminating all foods and drinks containing lactose for a set period to see if the symptoms resolve.
- Hydrogen breath test: A healthcare professional takes breath samples after consuming lactose-containing foods or beverages. Higher levels of hydrogen in the breath may indicate lactose intolerance.
- Milk tolerance test: Blood glucose levels are measured before and after drinking milk. If blood sugar levels do not rise, it suggests lactose intolerance.
- Surveys or questionnaires: These tools can aid in diagnosing lactose intolerance and assessing symptom severity.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and to determine the severity of lactose intolerance.
The goals of treatment for lactose intolerance are to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work:
- Dietary modifications: The primary way to manage lactose intolerance is through dietary changes. This involves reducing or eliminating lactose-containing foods from the diet. Many lactose-free products, such as plant milks, are available to help limit lactose consumption.
- Lactase supplements: Lactase tablets or drops can be taken before consuming lactose-containing foods to help break down lactose. These supplements provide the enzyme lactase, which aids in the digestion of lactose.
- Probiotics: Certain probiotic strains have shown specific activity in breaking down lactose, aiding in digestion. Probiotics can be taken as dietary supplements to help manage lactose intolerance symptoms.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements: People with lactose intolerance who are avoiding dairy products may become deficient in calcium and vitamin D. Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D or taking supplements may be recommended.
- Addressing underlying conditions: If lactose intolerance is caused by an underlying digestive condition, treating that condition may help improve symptoms.
It's important to note that these treatments aim to control and improve digestive symptoms, but complete elimination of all lactose may not be necessary for everyone. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.