Although the symptoms of lactose intolerance vary from person to person, they occur after the consumption of milk and dairy products. Switching to lactose-free alternatives or consuming dairy products in small portions may relieve symptoms.
What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is when the body has difficulty digesting lactose, a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition occurs due to the deficiency or insufficiency of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose in the intestines. When lactose cannot be digested, it can ferment in the intestines and cause digestive problems such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
What causes lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance usually occurs due to insufficient production of the enzyme lactase, which digests lactose in the intestines. It may develop due to reasons such as genetic predisposition, aging, intestinal infections, diseases affecting the intestinal wall such as celiac disease, or not consuming dairy products for a long time.
How to overcome lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is not a completely curable disease. Reducing or completely cutting out foods and drinks containing lactose is among the ways to follow. Choosing low-lactose or lactose-free dairy products ensures that the body receives the necessary nutrients. Lactose digestion can be supported by taking supplements containing lactase enzyme before meals. Eating small portions of lactose-containing foods to reduce the burden on the digestive system may also help relieve symptoms. If the symptoms are severe, a doctor should be consulted and a nutrition plan tailored to the individual should be created.
What is good for lactose intolerance?
Methods that are good for lactose intolerance include consuming lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products, taking lactase enzyme supplements and turning to lactose-free alternatives. Probiotics can also help reduce complaints by supporting digestion.
What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance?
Symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and nausea. These symptoms may occur within a few hours after consuming foods or beverages containing lactose.
How is lactose intolerance treated?
Although there is no definitive cure for lactose intolerance, the effects can be reduced. Treatment usually involves limiting lactose consumption or switching to lactose-free products. Nutritional balance can be maintained by choosing lactose-free milk and dairy products.