Lactose intolerance: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

What is lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder in which the body is unable to properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This is due to a deficiency or reduced production of the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down lactose into the usable simple sugars glucose and galactose.

Causes of lactose intolerance

There are various causes of lactose intolerance, which are mostly genetic or can be triggered by diseases:

Primary lactose intolerance

The most common form, in which lactase production decreases over the course of life.

Secondary lactose intolerance

A consequence of intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or gastrointestinal infections.

Congenital lactose intolerance

A rare genetic disorder in which newborns do not produce lactase.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance

The symptoms of lactose intolerance usually appear 30 minutes to two hours after consuming dairy products. The most common complaints include:

• Bloating
• Abdominal Pain and Cramps
• Diarrhea or Loose Stools
• Nausea
• Feeling of Fullness
• Gurgling Intestinal Sounds

The severity of symptoms depends on the individual amount of lactose a person can tolerate.

Diagnosis of Lactose Intolerance

There are various methods to diagnose lactose intolerance:

Lactose Tolerance Test

After drinking a lactose solution, blood sugar levels are measured.

Hydrogen Breath Test

This measures the hydrogen content in the breath, which is produced by undigested lactose in the large intestine.

Genetic Test

This can detect a genetic predisposition for lactose intolerance.

Dietary Changes and Self-Test

An elimination diet can be used to check if symptoms improve.

Impact on Daily Life

Lactose intolerance can significantly affect quality of life, especially if no suitable dietary adjustments are made. Those affected need to consciously monitor their diet and identify possible hidden sources of lactose in processed foods.

Nutrition Tips for People with Lactose Intolerance

Lactose-free alternatives

Plant-based dairy products like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk offer a good alternative to cow's milk.

Lactase tablets

These can help digest small amounts of lactose.

Naturally lactose-free products

Eggs, meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, rice, and potatoes contain no lactose.

Fermented dairy products

Some people tolerate yogurt and hard cheese better because the bacteria they contain partially break down lactose.

Lactose intolerance and sports

An unbalanced diet due to lactose intolerance can negatively affect athletic performance. A deficiency in calcium and vitamin D from avoiding dairy products can impair bone health. Alternatives such as lactose-free milk, fortified plant-based milk, and supplements can help replace these nutrients.

Treatment options

Lactose intolerance is not curable, but symptoms can be controlled through various measures:

• Low-lactose diet
• Lactase tablets to support digestion
• Conscious food selection and nutritional counseling

Lactose Intolerance vs. Milk Allergy

It is important not to confuse lactose intolerance with a milk allergy. While lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder, a milk allergy is an immune reaction to milk proteins that can lead to severe allergic reactions.

Lactose intolerance is widespread and can significantly affect daily life. However, through conscious nutrition and, if necessary, the intake of lactase tablets, those affected can live largely symptom-free.

Important note: This article is for informational purposes only. An accurate diagnosis and individual consultation should always be carried out by a specialist or a doctor.