Nausea is a common symptom of lactose intolerance, according to MayoClinic.com. If you're lactose intolerant, eating dairy products can cause a plethora of symptoms to develop shortly after ingesting milk. Nausea is also a symptom of a milk protein allergy, which is commonly confused with lactose intolerance. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, a milk allergy is typically detected during the first year of life, while lactose intolerance occurs more often in adulthood. Your doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis.
The Cause
Nausea caused by lactose intolerance is the result of irritation and inflammation in the gut. Lactose intolerance occurs when your body doesn't create enough of the proper enzymes to breakdown the sugar found in milk, according to MayoClinic.com. Lactose is a complex sugar that cannot be absorbed by the body in its state. Lactase is the enzyme required to simplify the lactose into galactose and glucose. If you don't produce enough lactase, the milk-sugar will sit in the intestines until it can be broken down by bacteria. The bacteria that form cause inflammation and aggravate the lining of the intestines.
Nausea
Nausea is a complex action of the body that is typically triggered by your stomach. If your stomach is upset, it sends signals to your brain, which in turn makes you feel queasy and unsettled, according to MedlinePlus. Nausea commonly results in vomiting, which may alleviate feeling nauseous for a while. Nausea from lactose intolerant should not last longer than a few hours. Once the lactose is expelled from the body, your digestive system will calm down and restore back to its normal state. You may also develop diarrhea and stomach cramping alongside being nauseated from lactose intolerance.
Prevention
Prevent nausea form lactose intolerance by avoiding dairy products, using a lactase enzyme supplement or purchasing lactose-free milk products. If you avoid dairy products you need to ensure you are still receiving the recommended daily dose of calcium and vitamin D. Lactase enzyme supplements are intended to be used during the first bite or sip of a dairy product. In most people, a lactase supplement will prevent common lactose intolerant symptoms.
Consideration
Any time you feel nauseous, you need to call your doctor. If your nausea leads to vomiting and is accompanied by diarrhea, you are at risk of becoming dehydrated. Increase the amount of clear liquids you drink and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
