Lactose Intolerance

Key Points

Overview

Lactose intolerance means your body has difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar present in milk and other dairy products. This happens because your small intestine doesn't produce enough of an enzyme called lactase, which is needed to break down lactose. When undigested lactose reaches the large intestine, it can cause various uncomfortable digestive symptoms. These symptoms typically appear within minutes to a few hours after consuming foods or drinks containing lactose. Managing lactose intolerance often involves adjusting your diet to reduce or completely avoid lactose-containing foods. Some people also find relief by taking lactase enzyme supplements before eating dairy.

Signs and Symptoms

• Tummy pain or discomfort
• Bloating
• Increased gas (farting)
• Tummy rumbling
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Feeling sick or being sick
• Headaches
• Tiredness
• Joint or muscle pain

Things That Increase the Risk

• Insufficient production of lactase enzyme
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Coeliac disease
• Bowel infections
• Bowel surgery or injury
• Premature birth (often temporary)

Diagnosis

• Lactose elimination diet to observe symptom changes
• Blood tests
• Hydrogen breath test to measure lactose digestion
• Gastroscopy for severe, persistent symptoms

Treatment & Management

• Reducing or avoiding lactose-containing foods
• Taking lactase enzyme supplements before consuming dairy
• Treating any underlying health conditions
• Choosing lactose-free dairy alternatives

Prevention

• Carefully checking food labels for lactose
• Limiting portion sizes of dairy products
• Using lactase supplements when consuming dairy
• Choosing lactose-free or dairy-free food options

Related Diseases

• Coeliac Disease
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Food Allergy

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Lactose Intolerance: