Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products.
It is broken down in the body by an enzyme called lactase, which is necessary in order for lactose to be properly digested and absorbed.
Lactose intolerance is caused by a shortage of lactase enzymes, which causes an inability to digest lactose and results in digestive symptoms.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance include (8):
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Nausea
Lactose intolerance is extremely common.
In fact, it is estimated that 65% of the world’s population has trouble digesting lactose (9).
Intolerance can be diagnosed several ways, including a lactose-tolerance test, lactose breath test or stool PH test.
If you think you may have an intolerance to lactose, avoid dairy products that contain lactose, such as milk and ice cream.
Aged cheeses and fermented products like kefir may be easier for those with lactose intolerance to tolerate, as they contain less lactose than other dairy products (10).
SUMMARYLactose intolerance is common and involves digestive symptoms including diarrhea, bloating and gas. People with lactose intolerance should avoid dairy products like milk and ice cream.
Read more
No comments:
Post a Comment