Lactose Intolerance: The Basics

Lactose intolerance is commonly thought of as a condition that begins at the start of life and lasts its entirety.

However, lactose intolerance can also develop later in life, brought on by various factors.

What is lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a condition that affects some people who have trouble digesting lactose, a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. Lactose intolerance is caused by a lack of the enzyme lactase, which is normally produced in the small intestine and helps break down lactose into simpler sugars that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

(Essentially, those who are lactose intolerant have no patience for lactose, and won’t stand for it.)

Could it be a dairy allergy?

Lactose intolerance isn’t a “true allergy;” it can develop at any age. Further, the symptoms of a milk allergy are far more pronounced—and potentially fatal. They include:

• wheezing and shortness of breath
• coughing
• itching or tingling feeling around the lips or mouth
• hives
• swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
• vomiting
• digestive problems, such as blood stools and abdominal cramps

Milk allergy can also cause anaphylaxis—a severe, life-threatening reaction.

What are lactose intolerance symptoms?

The symptoms of lactose intolerance are similar to a milk allergy, but less severe. When lactose is not digested properly, it can cause symptoms such as

• bloating
• gas
• diarrhea
• nausea
• stomach pain

These symptoms usually occur within 30 minutes to two hours after consuming lactose-containing foods or drinks.

What are its causes?

A number of conditions can lead to the body not making enough of the intestinal enzyme lactase either temporarily or longer term, including:

• injury to the small intestinal mucosa
• severe diarrhoeal illness
• celiac disease
• Crohn’s disease
• any trauma to the small intestine secondary to some surgery

What are some long-term effects?

If you don’t get enough calcium and vitamin D from sources other than dairy, lactose intolerance can affect your health. Calcium and vitamin D are important for bone health and may prevent osteoporosis.

People with lactose intolerance can manage their condition by avoiding or limiting lactose intake, taking lactase supplements or consuming lactose-free or reduced-lactose dairy products.

Non-dairy sources of calcium:

• dark leafy greens such as
• kale
• collard greens
• spinach
• fortified cereals and juices
• almonds
• sesame seeds

Non-dairy sources of vitamin D:

• fatty fish such as salmon and tuna
• egg yolks
• fortified foods such as orange juice and cereal