Just because you're lactose intolerant doesn't mean you can't drink milk. Every person's intolerance is different, so one person may be able to drink eight ounces of milk without any symptoms, while another person may not be able to handle four ounces. If you're not sure exactly how much of a specific dairy product you can eat without any symptoms, you may want to participate in a lactose detection diet. Talk with your doctor before modifying your diet to treat any condition.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a sugar found in milk products that is broken down in the body by an enzyme called lactase. MayoClinic.com states that everyone is intolerant towards lactose to some extent, but only those will distinctive symptoms are considered lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance is incurable but is manageable through diet and supplementation. Talk with your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Symptoms
Symptoms typically develop within 20 to 30 minutes after ingesting dairy, according to MedlinePlus. Common symptoms include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, cramping, loose stools, nausea and diarrhea. People with extreme lactose intolerance who continue to consume dairy products without treatment can become malnourished and can experience excessive weight loss. If you experience other reactions aside from digestive issues, discontinue using dairy and talk with your doctor.
Detection Diet Intention
Only a medical doctor can diagnose lactose intolerance, but a lactose detection diet is meant to identify which dairy products you can eat without symptoms and how much of each product it takes to cause a reaction. Start by eliminating all dairy from your diet for two weeks, recommends AskDrSears.com. Reintroduce one dairy product at a time. Begin with a small quantity and slowly increase the amount you eat or drink until you begin to experience common symptoms. Keep a journal of each dairy product, how much you consumed and how it affected you.
Results and Treatment
Share your results from the diet with your doctor to determine which dairy products you should continue to consume and which ones you should avoid. MayoClinic.com states that the most effective treatment for lactose intolerance is to avoid consuming too much lactose. Other treatments include using milk substitutes, such as rice- or soy-based beverages and foods. You can also purchase lactose-free dairy products, where the sugar has been removed so you can digest it easily. Lactase enzymes are also available over-the-counter that may help your body digest dairy.
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