Milk intolerance

Milk Intolerance

Milk intolerance, also known as Lactose Intolerance, is a common digestive disorder where the body is unable to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.

Symptoms

Symptoms of milk intolerance typically occur within a few hours after consuming milk or dairy products. These may include bloating, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, depending on the amount of lactose consumed and the degree of lactose intolerance.

Causes

Milk intolerance is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase, which is produced by the cells lining the small intestine. This enzyme is necessary to break down lactose into simpler sugars, glucose and galactose, which can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. Without sufficient lactase, lactose remains undigested and causes the symptoms of milk intolerance.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of milk intolerance can be confirmed through several tests, including the Lactose Tolerance Test, Hydrogen Breath Test, and Stool Acidity Test. These tests measure the body's response to lactose consumption and can help determine the degree of lactose intolerance.

Treatment

While there is no cure for milk intolerance, symptoms can be managed through dietary changes. This typically involves reducing or eliminating the consumption of milk and dairy products. In some cases, lactase supplements may be recommended to help digest lactose.

See Also

• Lactose Intolerance
• Food Allergy
• Digestive Disorders