Lactose Intolerance

Symptoms

• Gas
• Cramping
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Diarrhea

Lactose left undigested in the intestines can result in diarrhea, because of the excessive amounts of water that are drawn into the intestines by lactose. Hydrogen is produced, causing gas and bloating.

Causes

A number of factors may contribute to lactose intolerance, including medical disorders affecting the small intestine (such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease), increasing age, and complications from chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Home remedies

• Acidophilus and Probiotics : Acidophilus is one of many types of lactic acid bacteria. Lactic acid bacteria in the intestines breaks lactose down into short-chain fatty acids and other substances that can be absorbed by the colon. Lactic acid bacteria are available as dietary supplements. They are usually found as capsules, tablets, or powders in the refrigerated section of health food stores. They are also available at some drug stores, grocery stores, and online. There are many different types of lactic acid bacteria. The ones used most often for lactose intolerance include:
  • Lactobacillus Acidophilus
  • Lactobacillus Bulgaricus
  • Streptococcus salivarius
  • Lactobacillus Reuteri
  • Lactobacillus Plantarum
  • Streptococcus thermophilus
• Yogurt : Yogurt containing live active bacteria is believed to improve lactose digestion for the same reason that probiotics are thought to work.
• Acidophilus Milk : Acidophilus milks are made by adding Lactobacillus acidophilus to cold milk. Many of the studies that have looked at acidophilus milks for lactose digestion have found no improvement. Researchers have speculated that it may be because the acidophilus products used in the studies did not contain enough acidophillus.
• Lactase Supplements : Tablets containing lactase can be taken with lactose-containing foods. For many people, lactase supplements are only needed for larger quantities of lactose.
• 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.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.