Why can't I tolerate milk? Introduction to lactose intolerance

Introduction to Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder. It occurs when the body does not produce enough of the enzyme lactase. This enzyme is necessary to break down milk sugar (lactose). If the body cannot digest the lactose properly, it passes unchanged into the large intestine. This leads to unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The intolerance can be genetic or develop over the course of life. One reason for this could be a decrease in lactase production in adulthood.

This text is aimed at people who are themselves affected by lactose intolerance. It also speaks to those who are interested in the topic for personal or professional reasons. Education about the symptoms and effects of lactose intolerance is important. It helps those affected to adjust their diet and improve their quality of life. In addition, an understanding of this digestive disorder helps to eliminate misconceptions and prejudices. This makes it easier to create a supportive environment for those affected.

Biological background of lactose intolerance

Digestion of lactose, the sugar in dairy products, is a complex process that takes place in the digestive tract. Lactose first passes through the stomach into the small intestine. There, it is broken down by the enzyme lactase, which is produced in the villi along the wall of the small intestine. This breakdown process converts lactose into its components, glucose and galactose, which are then easily absorbed by the body. This glucose and galactose then enter the bloodstream to serve as a source of energy for the body (1).

The enzyme lactase plays a crucial role in lactose processing. The production of lactase is influenced by genetic predisposition and is different for each person. People who produce enough lactase digest lactose without problems and do not experience any discomfort after consuming dairy products (2).

Primary lactose intolerance occurs when the production of lactase naturally decreases over time, especially after childhood. This is the case for many people around the world and explains why many adults have difficulty digesting dairy products. Most sufferers suffer from this form of the condition.

There is also what is known as secondary lactose intolerance. This is an intolerance resulting from a disease of the small intestine. This disease then impairs the production of lactase. The causes can be an infection or an operation. In both cases, a lactase deficiency leads to poor digestion of lactose and results in the typical symptoms of lactose intolerance (3).

Symptoms of lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance causes a variety of symptoms that manifest themselves in different ways and affect the quality of life of those affected. The most common symptoms that occur immediately after eating foods containing lactose are abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea. These symptoms usually occur when consuming dairy products or other foods containing lactose. The period is between 30 minutes and two hours after consumption. They are caused by the incomplete digestion of lactose. The undigested lactose then passes into the large intestine and is fermented by intestinal bacteria. This leads to gas formation, abdominal pain and diarrhea (4,5).

In addition to the obvious gastrointestinal symptoms, less obvious signs can also indicate lactose intolerance. These include, for example, fatigue, headaches, concentration problems, skin problems such as eczema or itching, and mood swings and even depressive moods. These symptoms can severely affect the quality of life. They have a negative impact on daily well-being. This is also the case if they are not directly related to digestive problems (6).

Early diagnosis is important in order to initiate the correct treatment and necessary lifestyle changes early. In the case of lactose intolerance, early identification allows those affected to adjust their diet. They can avoid foods containing lactose. This helps to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. It is important that everyone monitors their symptoms closely. If necessary, a doctor should be consulted. This will give a sound diagnosis and appropriate treatment. (7,8).

Diagnosis of lactose intolerance

Diagnosing lactose intolerance requires a careful examination of the symptoms. There are also various tests available to make an accurate assessment. There are several methods to diagnose lactose intolerance. One of the most common tests is the hydrogen breath test. In this test, the person drinks a solution containing lactose. The hydrogen level in the breath is then measured regularly over several hours. An increase in the hydrogen level indicates that the lactose is not being fully digested and is instead being fermented in the large intestine.

Another test is the stool test, which examines the stool for the presence of undigested lactose. This test is often used in infants and young children because it is particularly uncomplicated (9).

Medical consultation plays a crucial role in diagnosing lactose intolerance. A doctor can evaluate the patient's symptoms, consider the medical history, and perform or recommend the appropriate diagnostic tests. He or she may also order further tests if necessary to rule out other causes of the symptoms.

It can also be useful to work with nutrition experts. These include nutritionists or dieticians. They help patients adjust their diet. These professionals help to develop an individualized diet plan. This plan limits or replaces foods that contain lactose. This can help relieve symptoms and ensure a balanced diet. (10,11).

It is important to clarify possible misconceptions and myths about diagnosing lactose intolerance. A common misconception is that lactose intolerance only affects people of Asian or African descent. This is not the case. The condition can affect people of all ethnic groups. It should also be noted that lactose intolerance is not the same as a milk allergy. These two conditions are different and require different diagnostic and treatment approaches. While lactose intolerance is a poor tolerance of the milk sugar, a milk allergy is a reaction of the immune system to the proteins.

Lactose-free diet: Practical tips for everyday life with lactose intolerance

For people with lactose intolerance, a lactose-free diet is often essential to avoid symptoms. It is important to be aware of which foods contain lactose and should be avoided. These include milk and dairy products such as yoghurt, cheese, cream and butter. Ready-made products and foods with hidden lactose, such as sausages, baked goods, sauces and dressings, should also be avoided.

Fortunately, there are a variety of alternative lactose-free products that are made specifically for people with lactose intolerance. These include lactose-free milk and dairy products as well as plant-based milk alternatives such as almond, soy, oat or rice milk. Natural yogurt with no added sugar or probiotic plant-based yogurt alternatives are also good alternatives: many people with only a slight intolerance can still consume yogurt. The reason seems to lie in the fermentative production with lactic acid bacteria (12,13).

When shopping, it is important to read the nutritional labels on food packaging carefully to identify hidden lactose. Fresh, unprocessed foods such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains, meat and fish are naturally lactose-free and therefore a safe choice. Supermarkets and pharmacies also have specially labelled lactose-free products to make the choice easier.

When preparing meals at home, it is advisable to avoid ingredients that contain lactose. When visiting a restaurant, it is helpful to read the menu in advance and ask about lactose-free options. You can also request special preparations without milk or cream and lactose-free alternatives in the restaurant.

It can also be helpful to have lactose-free snacks and meals on hand to ensure you always have an option on hand. Experimenting with lactose-free recipes can help you discover new flavors and open up whole new culinary possibilities. It is also important to be open about lactose intolerance and ask family, friends and colleagues for their support and understanding.

Lactose intolerance in children and the elderly

Lactose intolerance can occur in both children and the elderly, and is particularly challenging at both stages of life. A diagnosis of lactose intolerance in children can be worrying. Children often enjoy consuming dairy products. These products are an important part of a balanced diet. Parents must therefore pay particular attention to ensuring that their children receive certain nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients are consumed by most children through milk and can be lacking.

Transitioning children to a lactose-free diet requires careful planning and creative solutions. Parents can use lactose-free dairy products. They can ensure that their children receive a balanced diet that includes alternative sources of calcium, such as green vegetables, almonds and fortified plant-based milk alternatives. (14).

Diagnosing lactose intolerance can also be challenging for older people, especially if they already have other health problems. Restricted food intake can make the situation even more difficult. As we age, digestion is often less efficient, which can worsen the symptoms of lactose intolerance. Therefore, careful selection of lactose-free foods and adequate nutrient intake are especially important (15).

It is important to be patient when managing lactose intolerance in children and the elderly. A supportive environment helps manage symptoms better. Parents can support their children by involving them in shopping and preparing food. They should also offer them age-appropriate lactose-free recipes and snack ideas. With the elderly, it is important to consider their individual needs and preferences. It is important to provide a diet that they enjoy and that supports their health.

Conclusion and outlook

Overall, lactose intolerance is a common problem that affects many people, regardless of age. Proper diet and management of this condition are crucial to controlling symptoms.

With proper diagnosis and an adapted diet, people with lactose intolerance can effectively control their symptoms. It is important to switch to lactose-free foods and find alternative sources of calcium to ensure a balanced diet.

In addition, it is helpful to build a supportive community and to exchange ideas with other sufferers. By sharing experiences and tips, people with lactose intolerance can learn from each other and encourage each other.

In the future, more research and developments will take place to deepen the understanding of lactose intolerance. It remains important to stay informed about the latest findings. By taking active measures and staying informed on a regular basis, you can ensure that you are in control of your own health and well-being.

Sources

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