Lactose Intolerance | Causes | Foods used | Foods avoided | Sources of lactose | Symptoms | Diet |
The inability to digest milk sugar is known as lactose intolerance. Lactose is the natural sugar found in milk and milk products. The insufficient amount of lactase enzyme results in lactose intolerance.
CAUSES:
- Lactose(a natural sugar) has to be broken down by an enzyme called lactase into glucose and galactose before it can be absorbed and used by the body. The insuffient amount of the enzyme to handle lactose in the food you eat results in lactose intolerance.
- Injury to the intestinal lining such as gastrointestinal illness, Celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
SOURCES OF LACTOSE:
- Dairy products
- Milk
- Yoghurt
- Cheese
- Cookies
- Breads
- Hot dogs
- Some artificial sweeteners
FOODS THAT CAN BE USED:
- Lactose reduced milk
- Hard cheese
- Yogurt with less lactose
FOODS TO BE AVOIDED :
- Foods that cause any discomfort
- Medications which contain lactose
SYMPTOMS:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
DIET THERAPY:
- Start very slowly. Try a quarter cup of milk and then gradually increase. The more you avoid dairy the more intolerant you will become.
- Drink milk with meals, never on a empty stomach
- Enjoy yogurt. It is easily digestible
- Eat hard cheese which contain only small amounts of lactose
- Drink lactose reduced milk