What Causes Stomach Pain After Eating Dairy?

Lactose intolerance is the most common cause of stomach pain after eating dairy products. This condition affects approximately 65% of adults worldwide and occurs when your small intestine doesn't produce enough lactase enzyme to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. When undigested lactose reaches your colon, bacteria ferment it, producing gas, bloating, cramping, and diarrhea typically within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. Other potential causes include milk protein allergies, which affect about 2-3% of adults, or underlying digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome that make you more sensitive to certain foods.