Lactose is a sugar found in dairy products that is digested and absorbed in the small intestine with the help of the enzyme lactase. Lactose intolerance occurs when the small intestine fails to produce sufficient amounts of lactase. The condition is characterized by abdominal cramps, diarrhea, gas and nausea after eating foods that contain lactose. Infections, surgeries and diseases of the intestinal tract are the common causes of lactose intolerance which, according to MedlinePlus, affects about 30 million Americans. Lactose intolerance is a mild, controllable condition, although some long-term side effects may occur if not managed properly.
Bone Loss
Avoiding milk and milk products is the most common treatment prescribed to patients with lactose intolerance. However, the lack of dairy products in the diet can lead to a deficiency of calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for healthy bones, if they are not replaced by other foods rich in those nutrients. Thus, bone loss and associated conditions such as osteoporosis are the most common consequences of long-term lactose intolerance. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends consuming non-dairy, high-calcium foods such as fish, oranges, spinach and broccoli in sufficient amounts to all lactose intolerance patients. Synthetic calcium and vitamin D supplements may also be considered. It is also important to consult a dietitian and a physician to decide the appropriate diet and supplements for each patient.
Failure to Thrive
According to the University of Illinois McKinley Medical Center, infants born with congenital lactase deficiency are unable to digest breast milk and may experience constant diarrhea that can lead to dehydration and reduced growth and weight gain. Special lactose-free formulas can be given to such infants after consulting a physician.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Apart from promoting bone health, vitamin D also plays a major role in blood pressure regulation and immune system functioning and deficiency of this vitamin can lead to cancer, autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, hypertension and muscle pain. Thus, individuals with lactose intolerance who do not get sufficient amounts of vitamin D from diet should make sure that they get the vitamin from other sources to avoid long-term adverse health consequences. Exposure to direct sunlight without sunscreen for as little as 10 minutes a day, accoring to the Mayo Clinic, can lead to significant production of vitamin D by the human body. Vitamin D can also be obtained from synthetic supplements. It is, however, best to consult a doctor before taking them as chronic overuse of vitamin D supplements, according to MedlinePlus, can lead to kidney stones, vomiting and muscle weakness.
