Do you often feel bloated or uncomfortable after consuming dairy products such as milk, cheese or ice cream? If so, you may be experiencing lactose intolerance. What is lactose intolerance and how to deal with it? Let's look at the following information.
Get to know what lactose intolerance is
Lactose intolerance is a condition where our body cannot digest lactose, which is a natural sugar that can be found in milk and its processed products. This occurs because the body lacks the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose into two simple sugars, namely glucose and galactose. When lactose cannot be digested properly, it enters the large intestine and is fermented by bacteria. This is what causes various uncomfortable symptoms.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy products. Some common symptoms you may experience include:
- Stomach Bloated and Full of Gas
This happens because lactose is not digested and is fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, producing gas that causes flatulence.
- Having Diarrhea
Undigested lactose causes the stool to become watery and also increases the frequency of bowel movements resulting in diarrhea.
- Feeling Nauseous
Feelings of nausea or wanting to vomit can arise due to disorders of the digestive system when lactose cannot be digested properly.
- Stomach Cramps
Stomach cramps occur because the colon contracts as it tries to deal with and expel undigested lactose. These contractions can cause pain and cramping.
If you often experience these symptoms after consuming dairy products, it is a good idea to consider the possibility of lactose intolerance by consulting a professional doctor.
How to Diagnose Lactose Intolerance?
The following tests recommended by doctors will be carried out to diagnose the possibility of lactose intolerance in your body, namely:
1. Hydrogen Breath Test
This test is carried out by measuring the hydrogen levels in your breath after you consume drinks containing lactose. High hydrogen levels indicate that lactose is not being digested properly.
2. Lactose Tolerance Test
This test is carried out by measuring blood glucose levels after consuming drinks containing lactose. If glucose levels do not increase, it is likely that the body is not digesting lactose properly.
3. Stool Acidity Test
This test, more commonly used in children and infants, measures acid levels in feces which increase if lactose is not digested.
How to Treat Lactose Intolerance?
If you are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, here are some ways that can help you manage this condition:
- Limit or avoid dairy by trying to reduce or avoid dairy products. As a substitute for cow's milk and goat's milk, patients can choose milk made from soybeans, wheat or almonds. Apart from that, soy or coconut-based yoghurt, various types of cheese, and other foods labeled lactose-free are also safe for consumption.
- Consuming low-lactose dairy products could be your choice because some dairy products have been formulated to contain low lactose or are even lactose-free.
- You can take a lactase enzyme supplement before consuming dairy products to help digest lactose better.
- Pay attention to food labels because many processed food or drink products contain lactose, so always read food labels carefully to avoid hidden lactose.
Flatulence or other uncomfortable symptoms after consuming dairy products could be a sign that you are lactose intolerant. If you often experience these symptoms, it's a good idea to see a doctor. With the right diagnosis and appropriate management measures, you can still enjoy a variety of delicious foods without having to worry about bothersome symptoms. Remember, your digestive health is very important. So, consult a medical professional to get the right treatment. Healthy greetings!
Article written by dr. Yhan Batista, Sp.PD (Specialist in Internal Medicine at EMC Cibitung Hospital).