Over time, the small intestine may become deficient in lactase, an enzyme necessary for the breakdown of milk sugar, known as lactose.
Because lactose intolerance can develop at any age. You may unwittingly experience signs of this condition. A general digestive problem can flare up within hours of drinking milk, butter, cheese, cream, yogurt, or ice cream.
“The severity of your symptoms and the timing of their onset depend on the amount of lactose you consume,” says nutritionist Igor Strokov, especially for MedicForum.
It also depends on your sensitivity to lactose, since some people can drink a whole glass of milk without any problems, while others experience symptoms after drinking a drop of milk in tea or coffee.
If you notice your stomach growling, it could be a sign of lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance can also lead to flatulence and bloating.
While these signs of the disease can be easily overlooked, more telling signs include:
- < li>Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- I feel sick
Lacking an adequate supply of lactase, milk sugar lactose cannot be broken down into glucose and galactose. Glucose and galactose are readily absorbed into the blood, while lactose is not. If lactose is not broken down, milk sugar remains in the digestive system, where it is fermented by bacteria.
“This leads to the production of various gases that cause symptoms associated with lactose intolerance,” Strokow explains.
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Why doesn't the body produce enough lactase?
Most people first notice signs of lactose intolerance between the ages of 20 and 40. The main cause of lactase deficiency is caused by an inherited genetic error.
As you become less dependent on dairy products, primary lactase deficiency may develop, although symptoms may not appear until adulthood.
Secondary lactase deficiency can occur due to:
- Gastroenteritis
- Celiac disease
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Chemotherapy
- Long courses of antibiotics
Symptoms that indicate lactose intolerance named
MedicalForum has previously written about kidney-friendly drinks.
Important ! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.