Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, the predominant sugar of milk. This inability results from lacking or shortage of the enzyme lactase, which is normally produced by the cells that line the small intestine

breaks down milk sugar into simpler forms that can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. When there is not enough lactase to digest the lactose consumed, the results, although not usually dangerous, may be very distressing. While not all persons deficient in lactase have symptoms, those who do are considered to be lactose intolerant.

Symptoms

There are numerous symptoms associated with lactose intolerance that include: nausea, cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea, usually it begins around 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating or drinking foods containing lactose. The severity of symptoms differs from person to person depending on the amount of lactose each individual can tolerate.

Causes

Certain digestive diseases and injuries to the small intestine can reduce the amount of enzymes produced. There are rare cases, that some children are born without ability to produce lactase. Although, lactase deficiency is a condition that develops naturally over time. After about the age of 2 years old, the body begins to produce less lactase, Many people may not experience symptoms until they are much older.

Home Remedies

Yogurt: It must contain live active bacteria that is believed to improve lactose digestion.

When yogurt is consumed, bile acids disrupt the cell wall of the bacteria in yogurt. This releases the enzyme beta-galactosidase (a substance related to lactase) into the intestine where it can help to effectively digest lactose.

Not any yogurt will do. It must contain live active bacteria.Although yogurt is a milk product, many people with lactose intolerance do not experience symptoms after eating yogurt, even the kind that doesn’t contain live active bacteria.

Acidophilus Milk

Acidophilus milks are made by adding Lactobacillus acidophilus to cold milk..

Diet

It’s quite common for people to avoid lactose-containing foods completely, but that usually isn’t unnecessary and may contribute to calcium deficiency.

Some dietary strategies for people with lactose intolerance include: less consumption of milk at a time, consume milk products alongside with meals than taking just milk alone. Try yogurt instead of milk