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Read MoreLactose Intolerance: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on May 16th, 2023.
Key Takeaways
- Primary lactose intolerance affects 65% of adults worldwide as lactase enzyme production naturally decreases after weaning, with highest rates in East Asian, West African, Arab, and Mediterranean populations.
- Symptoms typically appear 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy, with severity depending on the amount consumed—most people can tolerate 12-15 grams of lactose (about 1 cup of milk) without major discomfort.
- Hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss contain less than 1 gram of lactose per ounce, while milk contains 12 grams per cup, making aged cheeses often well-tolerated even by intolerant individuals.
- Lactase enzyme supplements containing 3,000-9,000 FCC units taken immediately before dairy consumption can prevent symptoms in 70-80% of people when used correctly.
- Secondary lactose intolerance can develop temporarily after gastroenteritis, celiac disease, or antibiotic use that damages intestinal villi, but often resolves once the underlying condition heals.
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive condition that affects millions of Americans. If you have difficulty digesting milk and dairy products, you may be lactose intolerant. While the condition is not harmful, it can cause discomfort and embarrassment. In this article, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for lactose intolerance.
What is Lactose?
Lactose is the sugar found in milk and dairy products. Our bodies produce an enzyme called lactase, which breaks down lactose so we can absorb it into our bodies. However, people with lactose intolerance don't produce enough lactase, leading to digestive issues when they consume dairy.
Causes of Lactose Intolerance
The main cause of lactose intolerance is a deficiency in lactase production. There are several types of lactose intolerance:
Primary lactose intolerance: The most common type, occurring when lactase production gradually decreases with age.
Secondary lactose intolerance: Caused by an illness or injury affecting the small intestine, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease.
Congenital lactose intolerance: A rare genetic condition present from birth.
Developmental lactose intolerance: Affecting premature babies whose digestive systems are not fully developed.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
Symptoms of lactose intolerance may take hours to appear after consuming dairy and can include:
Bloating
Gas
Nausea and vomiting
Stomach cramps and pain
Diarrhea
Diagnosing Lactose Intolerance
If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, your doctor can perform tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:
Breath test
Blood test
Stool acidity test (for children and infants)
Genetic test
Treatment Options for Lactose Intolerance
While there is no cure for lactose intolerance, there are several ways to manage the condition:
Limit dairy intake: Experiment to find out how much lactose you can tolerate without symptoms.
Choose lactose-free alternatives: Many lactose-free dairy products and milk alternatives are available, such as soy milk, almond milk, and lactose-free milk.
Take lactase supplements: Over-the-counter supplements like Lactaid can help break down lactose when consuming dairy.
Ensure a balanced diet: If you eliminate dairy, make sure to get enough calcium and vitamin D from other sources, such as leafy greens, fortified foods, and supplements.
If you experience symptoms of lactose intolerance, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right management strategies, you can minimize discomfort and maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
Additional Resources
The Bottom Line
Most adults can manage lactose intolerance effectively by gradually introducing small amounts of dairy to build tolerance, choosing naturally low-lactose options like aged cheeses, and using enzyme supplements when needed. Ensuring adequate calcium intake through fortified non-dairy alternatives or leafy greens prevents nutritional deficiencies. If you're experiencing persistent digestive symptoms after eating dairy, Doctronic can help determine if lactose intolerance is the cause.
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