How do you become lactose intolerance?

How Do You Get Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a condition in which your body can't digest the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This sugar is called lactose. Lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy. With a milk allergy, your body's immune system reacts to the proteins in milk. With lactose intolerance, your body doesn't produce enough of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose.

Who Gets Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is very common—in fact, it's estimated that about 65% of the population has it! It tends to develop after childhood. Some people are born with lactose intolerance, but it's more likely to develop as you get older.

What Causes Lactose Intolerance?

The most common cause of lactose intolerance is a decrease in the production of lactase. Lactase is an enzyme that is produced in the small intestine. It breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose, which are two simple sugars that your body can absorb.

How Do You Know If You Have Lactose Intolerance?

The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance are bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain. These symptoms usually occur within a few hours after eating or drinking dairy products.

What If I Think I Might Have Lactose Intolerance?

If you're lactose intolerant, you may need to avoid or limit your intake of dairy products. You can still get calcium and other nutrients you need from other sources, such as leafy green vegetables, calcium-fortified foods, and supplements.

How Can You Manage Lactose Intolerance?

If you have lactose intolerance, there are a few things you can do to manage your condition:

* Avoid or limit your intake of dairy products. This means avoiding foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and butter. You may also need to avoid foods that are made with milk, such as cookies, cakes, and bread.

* Choose dairy products that are lactose-free or low in lactose. Many lactose-free dairy products are available in grocery stores. You can also find lactose-free milk in most convenience stores.

* Take lactase enzyme supplements. If you're lactose intolerant, you can also take lactase enzyme supplements to help you digest lactose. These supplements are available in over-the-counter and prescription forms.