Lactose intolerance is a negative gastrointestinal reaction to milk. It is not a serious condition and usually does not require medical assistance or maintenance further than avoiding milk products. However, treatments are necessary if you want to keep including milk in your diet. Treatments are available to those with the intolerance who prefer to continue enjoying dairy.
Lactase
The primary factor in lactose intolerance is a lack of lactase, an enzyme the body uses to metabolize lactose. Lactose is a disaccharide produced by mammals, composed of glucose-galactose bonds. It serves as a source of immediate energy in milk for newborn young. When the body digests milk, lactose first enters into the small intestine, where lactase is responsible for splitting glucose-galactose bonds into free monosaccharides. This is only one step in the process of converting it entirely to glucose, so cells can absorb it from the bloodstream.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance results when the body is deficient in or unable to use lactase. In the absence of this enzymatic response, lactose simply collects in the small intestine. This is the source of the gastrointestinal discomfort associated with lactose intolerance -- the lactose ferments, releasing gas, and collects water, softening stools. Cramps, flatulence and diarrhea result. Possible causes of lactose intolerance include an inherited absence of lactase and degenerative diseases of the small intestine like Crohn's disease. However, the most common cause is a natural reduction in lactase production. As milk becomes progressively less essential in our diet with age, the body may reduce its production of lactase dramatically, resulting in an intolerance.
Treatments for Lactose Intolerance
The most effective treatment is a reduction in milk consumption. Most people with a lactose intolerance will not experience adverse effects from drinking 2 to 4 oz. of milk in a day, reports MedlinePlus.com. Therefore, a complete cessation of milk consumption may not be necessary. Another common treatment is lactase supplementation. Lactase available as an additive in milk products, in capsule or tablet form and as a tasteless solution. Alternately, you could opt for lactose-free dairy or dairy replacement products.
Considerations
Lactose intolerance differs from a milk allergy, which is potentially more serious. Excluding milk from your diet can result in nutrient deficiencies, specifically in riboflavin, calcium, vitamin D and protein. However, this depends on how much of these nutrients appear in other foods you eat. Complete avoidance of milk is most likely to require calcium supplementation. Lactose appears in some non-milk products and will have the same effects in those with an intolerance. Consult your doctor before making any determinations about your health or your diet.
