Lactose Intolerance
December 10, 2008
Lactose intolerance is the irritation caused by lactose. These group of people cannot digest lactose hence cannot enjoy consumption of milk or other milk based dairy products. Lactose is special kind of sugar present in sugar in major amount and this intolerance is caused by lactose hormone which is generated by a specific cell line in small intestine.
Milk sugar is broken down by Lactase into glucose and galactose and in due course absorbed by blood. Those who have lactose intolerance suffers from gas, bloating and vomiting, in some cases tends to be converted in diarrhea, cramping and problem of nausea.
There is a general confusion about lactose intolerance with cow’s milk intolerance because of the display of same symptoms in both the cases. But contrary to belief, these two are markedly different. Intolerance to cow milk is stimulated by immunity system of a person whereas lactose intolerance is triggered by the problem in digestive system.
There are many reasons for lactose intolerance. Primary lactase deficiency is one of the main reasons of this disorder. This disorder is developed by time because after 2 years of age, body starts producing less amount of lactase although most people feels this development in their later age.
Secondary type of lactase deficiency is seen when the process of lactose production gets hampered due to sudden intestinal injury or somehow being affected by digestive diseases like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and inflammatory boil disease.
Extensive research has identified a genetic link for occurrence of lactose intolerance. Some people are born with genetic link with their parents. In case of diagnosis of lactose intolerance the family history need to be considered.
The problem of Lactose intolerance cannot be diagnosed depending on the symptoms only. Common people may consider some other problems with this problem of lactose intolerance say for example of Irritable Bowel syndrome displays the same symptoms like lactose intolerance.
The most known tests which are used to detect and estimate the severity of lactose intolerance are hydrogen breath, stool acidity test, and test for lactose intolerance test.
People with lactose intolerance may have a variety of symptoms. It all depends on how much dairy or how many milk-containing foods the person eats and how little lactase the body produces.
Usually within 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating, someone with lactose intolerance will experience nausea,stomach cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.This can be unpleasant,not to mention embarrassing if you’re at school or out with friends.
Because many people may think they’re lactose intolerant when they really aren’t,it helps to see a doctor who can diagnose the condition correctly and advise you on ways to manage it.
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kevin
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