Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder that is caused by the inability of the body to digest lactose. The main carbohydrate of milk causes symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, gas and diarrhoea.
Myth:- Lactose intolerance is the type of food allergy.
Fact:- No. Lactose tolerance is not a type of food allergy because in food allergy, the body reacts with proteins in milk rather than with sugars. Plus allergy involves the immune system whereas lactose tolerance has nothing to do with this process.
Symptoms
- Abdominal pain.
- Cramps.
- Bloating.
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Gas.
Diagnostic Tests
After learning about the symptoms, the doctor will advise for certain tests such as a lactose tolerance test. if you are not agree, you can take a second opinion.
Lactose tolerance test can be done in two ways:
- Lactose hydrogen breathing test.
- Blood test for lactose tolerance.
Treatment
- Avoid dairy foods.
- Consuming non-dairy proteins and vitamins.
- Taking enzyme supplements that help in breaking down lactose.