Lactose Intolerance Symptoms
The human body has an enzyme called Lactase, which is needed to break down the sugars in dairy products within the digestive system. A lack of this enzyme will cause one to be lactose intolerant and the problems that occur with this deficiency run from mild to severe. Another form of this intolerance is called Acquired Lactose Intolerance and can occur temporarily due to the small intestine ceasing the manufacture of the enzyme Lactase. This most often occurs from an illness such as stomach flu, or a surgery that removed a part of the small intestine. Many times, the small intestine will again produce Lactase, after it has healed. If you think you are lactose intolerant a trip to the doctor is most likely needed.
Many times the symptoms of lactose intolerance can be confusing, often seeming more like the flu. Knowing if it is dairy products that are causing your symptoms can usually be observed. If drinking one glass of milk or ingesting a serving of a dairy product makes you sick, this does not necessarily mean you are lactose intolerant. However, if symptoms occur every time a dairy product is eaten, chances are you are lactose intolerant. As we get older the body can produce less Lactase, causing lactose intolerance, even if you have never had this problem before. The incidences of lactose intolerance are much more common in teens and adults than in newborn babies. Lactose intolerance has been noticed to run in families and is more common in those of Native American, Asian, African, and South American descent. This lactose intolerance seems to be less common in those of European descent.
Usually once a person becomes lactose intolerant in their teens or adulthood it becomes a problem for the rest of their lives. The incidents of lactose intolerance in newborn babies are less frequent than in adults. In premature babies, the intolerance is usually temporary, as they are not yet making the enzyme Lactase. Once their bodies start producing this enzyme their intolerance goes away.
Symptoms in teen or adults usually occur between thirty minutes to two hours after ingesting any dairy product. These symptoms can include, bloating and cramps and pain in the lower belly. Rumbling or gurgling sounds in the lower belly, and flatulence. Loose stools or diarrhea, in some cases the stools can be foamy. Vomiting can also occur, depending on how much dairy was ingested. These symptoms can be moderate to severe.
Symptoms in newborn babies are usually more severe and can include foamy diarrhea, diaper rash, vomiting, dehydration, slow weight gain, and weakness and irritability. The newborn has to been seen and treated by a doctor immediately as these symptoms can become life threatening rapidly.
Foods to avoid if you are lactose intolerant include, milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream, and any other food product that may contain milk or dairy products. It is wise to check ingredients when buying food products. There are many products on the market today that are lactose-free, as well as milks made with plants, such as soy and rice milk.
