provides a comprehensive look
at the who, what, when and how of Lactose intolerance
< b>Lactose intolerance: Inability to digest lactose, a component of milk
and most other dairy products. Lactose is sometimes also used as an ingredient in
other foods, so those with a lactase deficiency should check labels carefully.
The basis for this condition is lack of an enzyme called lactase in the small
intestine. Lactase is essential to digest lactose. Without enough lactase, there
is lactose intolerance.
Most people are born with the ability to make adequate amounts of lactase, but
lactase production normally decreases with age, more so in some persons than others.
There are significant differences relative to lactase production among ethnic groups.
Inadequate lactase production can cause difficulty digesting lactose-containing
products, which include dairy products themselves and foods containing dairy products
as ingredients.
The most common symptoms of lactase deficiency are diarrhea, bloating, and gas.
The diagnosis may be made by a trial of a lactose-free diet or by special testing.
In some cases, other diseases of the intestine may need to be excluded by further
medical evaluation.
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