If you're lactose intolerance, homogenized or non-homogenized milk will not make a difference. Both forms of milk contain lactose and can trigger unpleasant symptoms after eating or drinking. Lactose intolerance is a common condition in adulthood that causes gastrointestinal side effects, but does not cause any life-long complications to your digestive system. If you develop other symptoms unrelated to the digestive system, you may have a milk allergy. Your doctor will provide a clinical diagnosis and treatment options.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is the inability to properly digest the sugar found in milk, lactose, according to MedlinePlus. If you eat products made from homogenized milk or drink homogenized dairy, your digestive tract fails to produce enough lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose into two simple sugars -- galactose and glucose. In its original state, lactose cannot be absorbed into the blood stream and will remain in the gut until bacteria breaks it down. The bacteria cause excessive gas and irritation in the digestive tract.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance after consuming homogenized milk appear within 2 hours following ingestion. Symptoms are exclusive to the digestives system and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, stomach pain, cramping and foul-smelling stools. Blood or mucus in your stools is not normal and needs to be reported to your doctor. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of your condition and how much milk you drink.
Treatment
If you develop symptoms after ingesting homogenized milk, talk with your doctor. MayoClinic.com recommends avoiding milk, taking a lactase enzyme supplement when you eat dairy or purchasing lactose-free dairy products. If you choose to avoid milk, use substitutes that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, such as soy milk, rice milk or almond milk. Lactase enzyme supplements can prevent symptoms when taken with the first sip or bite of a dairy product. Some manufacturers add the lactase enzyme during production, eliminating the lactose.
Consideration
Lactose intolerance and a milk allergy are commonly confused. A milk allergy triggers other symptoms to develop, such as nasal congestion, hives, eczema, skin rashes, facial tingling, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, coughing and wheezing.
