Calcium lactate is a mineral found in a variety of foods, including cow's milk, according to Drugs.com. Calcium lactate is commonly taken in supplement form to treat certain conditions. Indiividuals with sensitiviites to milk or milk products may or may not be able to take calcium lactate, depending on the nature of the sensitivity. The supplement can interact or inhibit the activity of other drugs; its use needs to be evaluated by a physician.
About Calcium Lactate
Calcium lactate is primarily used as a dietary supplement to treat calcium deficiency disorders, according to Drugs.com. The supplement is most effective when taken with food and a full glass of water. Common side effects of calcium lactate are constipation, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth and increased urination. Before taking these supplements, talk to your doctor, especially if you have suffered from kidney stones. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, throat swelling or dizziness, call 911.
About Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a condition in which a patient's body does not produce enough lactase, the enzyme used to digest lactose. Lactose is a sugar commonly found in cow's milk. Most adults have some level of difficulty digesting lactase, but only those with distinctive symptoms are considered to be lactose-intolerant, according to the Mayo Clinic. Common symptoms include bloating, gas, vomiting, diarrhea, floating stools, nausea and foul-smelling stool.
Lactose-Intolerance and Calcium Lactate Supplementation
While calcium lactate can be made from milk, calcium lactate does not contain lactose and is considered safe for people with lactose intolerance, according to the University of Wisconsin Health. It's important for you to talk with your doctor before modifying your diet or adding a nutritional supplement to treat a medical condition.
Treatment
There is no cure for lactose intolerance, but it is manageable, according to the Mayo Clinic. Avoiding foods and beverages containing lactose will alleviate lactose intolerance symptoms. Lactase enzyme supplements may be purchased at a pharmacy to help the body digest milk products. Some dairy products are made with lactase added for people with lactose intolerance, according to the University of Wisconsin.
Consideration
Lactose intolerance is commonly confused with a milk allergy. Lactose intolerance will only affect the digestive system, without any other symptoms. If you experience shortness of breath, nasal congestion and skin reactions along with digestive complications, you may have a milk allergy. According to Young Women's Health, calcium lactate may cause an allergic reaction in a person with a milk allergy.
