Symptoms of lactose intolerance. Is it a lactose allergy?

Nowadays, more and more people struggle with the problem of lactose intolerance, which can lead to various unpleasant ailments. But is lactose intolerance the same as lactose allergy? In the article below, we will learn what lactose is, what are its causes, symptoms in adults and infants, as well as how to deal with lactose intolerance, what diet to follow and what preparations with lactase can help. Let’s check if lactose intolerance is a milk allergy.

Lactose intolerance – what is lactose anyway?

Lactose is milk sugar found in animal products, mainly milk. For the body to digest lactose, it needs an enzyme called lactase, which breaks down lactose into simpler sugars: glucose and galactose. Lactose intolerance is the absence or deficiency of lactase, which leads to problems with the digestion of lactose.

Lactose intolerance – causes

Lactose intolerance can have various causes. One of them is a genetic predisposition, or heredity. People of Asian, African or South American descent are more susceptible to lactose intolerance than people of European descent. Additionally, lactose intolerance can be acquired as a result of damage to the intestines, for example as a result of infections, injuries or other diseases of the digestive tract.

Lactose intolerance – symptoms in adults

Symptoms of lactose intolerance in adults may vary, depending on the degree of intolerance. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, nausea and gas. People with lactose intolerance often experience these symptoms after consuming products containing lactose, such as milk, yogurt or cheese.

Lactose intolerance in infants – symptoms

In infants, the symptoms of lactose intolerance may be even more troublesome. Children suffering from this problem may have colic, abdominal pain, frequent flatulence, diarrhea and problems with gaining weight. Lactose intolerance in infants may be the result of lactase deficiency or other health problems.

Lactose intolerance – treatment

There are several ways to deal with lactose intolerance. The first is the elimination of lactose from the diet. People who are lactose intolerant should avoid dairy products and consume alternative products such as plant milk or lactose-free products. It is also important to supplement the diet with appropriate supplements, such as calcium and vitamin D, which may be deficient in the absence of milk consumption.

Lactose intolerance – diet

The diet of people with lactose intolerance should be carefully adjusted. It is worth reaching for lactose-free products, such as soy, almond or oat milk, as well as fermented products, which are easier to digest. It is also worth including sources of calcium in your diet, such as broccoli, kale or nuts, to prevent calcium deficiency.

Lactose intolerance – preparations with lactase

There are lactase preparations available on the market that help digest lactose. People with lactose intolerance can use them before consuming products containing lactose to alleviate the symptoms of intolerance. However, before starting supplementation, it is worth consulting a doctor or dietitian.

Lactose intolerance – lactose-free baby milk

Special lactose-free formulas are available for babies with lactose intolerance. Such products are suitable for children who are lactose intolerant and cannot be breastfed. It is worth consulting a pediatrician to choose the right milk for babies with lactose intolerance.

Is lactose intolerance a milk allergy?

Lactose intolerance and milk allergy are two different things. Lactose intolerance is a lack of the enzyme lactase, which prevents the body from digesting lactose. Milk allergy, on the other hand, is an immune reaction to milk proteins that can cause various allergic symptoms, such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing or anaphylactic reactions. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between these two problems and appropriate treatment depending on the diagnosis.

Your suggestions

If you have lactose intolerance or think you may have lactose intolerance, it is best to consult your doctor or dietitian. The specialist will help you establish a diagnosis and plan an appropriate diet and therapy. Regardless of whether it is lactose intolerance or milk allergy, it is important to take care of your health and adjust your diet accordingly.

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If you are interested in the topic of lactose intolerance, we recommend that you read our other articles on this topic. You will learn more about possible therapies, new research and interesting facts about lactose intolerance.

It is worth remembering that each body is different, so it is best to adapt the diet and therapy to your individual needs and symptoms. Do not underestimate the problem of lactose intolerance and look for a solution that will help you enjoy health and comfort of life.