Lactose Intolerance (LI)
Lactose Intolerance (LI): Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Management
Lactose intolerance (LI) is a condition where the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. This occurs due to insufficient production of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose into easily absorbed sugars.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose-containing foods and may include:
- Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Discomfort and swelling in the abdomen.
- Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools.
- Gas and Flatulence: Excessive gas production leading to discomfort and bloating.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach, which may lead to vomiting in some cases146.
Causes of Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is primarily caused by low levels of lactase in the small intestine:
- Lactase Nonpersistence: Common in adults worldwide, where lactase production decreases after infancy6.
- Congenital Lactase Deficiency: Rare condition where lactase is absent from birth6.
- Secondary Lactose Intolerance: Results from injury to the small intestine due to infections or diseases like celiac disease6.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis involves:
- Hydrogen Breath Test: Measures hydrogen levels in breath after lactose consumption1.
- Lactose Tolerance Test: Checks blood glucose levels after lactose intake1.
- Stool Acidity Test: Used in infants and young children1.
Treatment focuses on dietary adjustments:
- Reducing Lactose Intake: Limiting or avoiding lactose-containing foods.
- Lactase Supplements: Enzyme replacement to aid digestion7.
- Nutritional Counseling: Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake from non-dairy sources7.
Conclusion
Lactose intolerance is a common condition that can be managed effectively through dietary changes and enzyme supplementation. Understanding its causes and symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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