Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is the inability of grown-ups and kids to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products, bringing about symptoms. It is because of a lactase deficiency, or hypolactasia. In some (uncommon) cases, children have inherent lactase deficiency, which keeps them from having the capacity to digest human milk. Symptoms include abdominal bloating and cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea, borborygmi, and vomiting (especially in young people). This can be seen after one-half to two hours of consumption. Lactose intolerance may be hereditary or environmentally induced. In either case, manifestations are brought about by deficient levels of lactase in the lining of the duodenum The seriousness of manifestations normally increments with the measure of lactose devoured; most lactose-intolerant individuals can endure a certain level of lactose in their diet plans without ill effects.

canada 20 % of people are lactose intolerant. Research: As one of the five food groups, dairy foods such as milk, cheese and yogurt are important for good nutrition throughout childhood and adulthood. Milk, cheese and yogurt provide over ten essential nutrients, including Protein, Carbohydrate (lactose), Vitamins (A, B12 and riboflavin), Minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and zinc). People with lactose maldigestion DO NOT need to eliminate dairy foods from their diet. Many dairy foods do not contain large amounts of lactose.

Research has shown that the majority of people with low lactase enzyme levels can consume at least one cup of milk (about 12 grams of lactose) a day. Research has also shown that if people with lactose maldigestion drink milk with different meals over the day, up to 2 cups of milk a day can be drunk without experiencing symptoms of lactose intolerance. Dairy foods such as milk, cheese and yogurt play an important role in a balanced diet. Three serves a day will provide enough calcium for most people. One serve is equal to 1 glass (250mL) of milk, a tub (200g) of yogurt or 2 slices (40g) of cheese. People who remove dairy foods from their diet to treat lactose intolerance, have an increased risk of low bone mineral content and perhaps of developing osteoporosis (brittle bone disease) later in life. That’s because dairy foods are rich in calcium and other bone building nutrients which play an essential role in building and maintaining strong healthy bones.