Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder characterized by the inability to fully digest lactose, the primary sugar in milk and dairy products. This condition arises from a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in the small intestine. When lactose is not adequately digested, it passes into the large intestine, where it is fermented by bacteria, leading to the production of gas and other byproducts.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, and nausea, typically occurring after consuming dairy products. These symptoms vary in severity among individuals and are dose-dependent, meaning they are often related to the quantity of lactose consumed. The condition can be diagnosed through a number of tests, such as the lactose tolerance test, hydrogen breath test, or stool acidity test. Management primarily involves dietary modifications to limit lactose intake, the use of lactose-free products, or supplementation with lactase enzyme to aid in digestion.