Lactose intolerance is a lack or low level of lactase in the body which makes it difficult to digest dairy foods because they have a sugar called lactose. It varies from person to person with different tolerance levels of lactose depending on your form of lactose intolerance.
Lactase
Lactase is an enzyme produced in the small intestine that helps digest milk sugar also known as lactose. Lactase breaks down lactose into two sugars namely glucose and galactose. A lower level or lack of lactase causes a condition which is referred to as lactose intolerance. People who are lactose intolerant have a problem digesting dairy foodstuffs. After thirty minutes to two hours from taking dairy foods and drinks, they start experiencing lactose intolerance symptoms which vary from the amount of intake.
Lactose intolerant
Symptoms of people who are lactose intolerant vary. If you usually experience some of the symptoms like nausea, gas, belching, bloating, diarrhea or stomach cramps after taking dairy foodstuffs you should probably get checked at a hospital. Lactose intolerant symptoms are not life-threatening but they are very unpleasant.
Can you prevent lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance cannot be prevented and there is also no cure for it. However, it is easy to treat. Once you notice you suffer the symptoms and visit the hospital for a check-up and you have been diagnosed with lactose intolerance you should reduce the foods you take that contain dairy products like ice cream and milk. There are supplements and vitamins that can help your body digest lactose. They are over the counter tablets and drops that contain the lactase enzyme. It is wise to keep in mind these products vary depending on your level of lactose intolerance.
How to control lactose intolerance and manage the symptoms?
Treatment mainly depends on keeping off dairy foodstuffs, use of lactase supplements and vitamins or use of lactose-free products. A change of diet is highly advised since being lactose intolerant means your body cannot digest dairy foodstuffs avoiding dairy products like ice cream and milk will be good for your health. You should keep your guard up and be vigilant checking labels because many foods like baked foods, infant foods, and dried vegetables contain lactose. Consult with your doctor about taking calcium supplements since your body will not get enough calcium after reducing or stopping your intake of milk and any other dairy foodstuffs.
If you would like to know more about food intolerances and food sensitivities then please do not hesitate to contact us on www.testyourintolerance.com in order to find out more about the services that we offer and how we can help you. Our Customer Service advisors will be happy to assist you in any way possible. They are available via LiveChat 24 hours a day, 5 days a week.
