Lactose Intolerance: The Dairy Implication

Milk is promoted widely in the media as a healthy addition to the diet of both children and adults.  While milk  and other dairy products offer vital nutrients to the body, and promote weight loss, for some individuals, it can lead to a whole new set of health complications.  For these individuals, suffering from lactose intolerance, the consumption of diary products, especially milk, and some forms of beer, often leads to an irritable bowel and gastrointestinal disorder.   For indivduals suffering from these adverse reactions, understanding what causes lactose intolerance and methods for prevention and treatment will ensure a more satisfying lifestyle.

Lactose is a sugar product found in many food items, especially common in milk and dairy.   For individuals suffering from a lack of the natural enzyme, lactase, the digestive system is unable to process the lactose found in milk , beer and most dairy products.   When suffering from lactose intolerance, symptoms generally onset immediately following the consumption of the food product and may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas and cramps.   For many sufferers, the symptoms are quite severe and can inhibit the performance of daily living activities.  So, how do you know if you have a lactose intolerance?

Diagnosing lactose intolerance is quite simple.  With the onset of symptoms, most individuals will simply discontinue consuming milk and other lactose products which often leads to an improvement in symptoms.  As a sort of "self-diagnosis" these individuals may then add in various dairy or beer products to determine if one item is less tolerant than another.  For individuals seeking a more professional medical approach, diagnosing lactose intolerance can be confirmed through a healthcare professional peforming a variety of breath tests and laboratory blood work.