Calcium is an important mineral for healthy growth and development of strong teeth and bones, and toddlers need 500 mg of calcium daily; however, getting the recommended daily intake of calcium can be difficult if children experience temporary lactose intolerance. Although this condition might last only a few weeks, it is important that kids still get the required amount of calcium. If your toddler has frequent episodes of lactose intolerance, talk to a physician.
Lactose Intolerance
All milk and dairy products contain a sugar called lactose. Lactose is broken down by an enzyme called lactase, which turns lactose into energy for the body. Lactose intolerance can occur when toddlers lack the ability to digest or absorb lactose. According to the Baby Center, it is unlikely that your toddler is lactose intolerant because it develops gradually and usually shows up in grade school or during the teen years; however, there are some conditions that can cause temporary lactose intolerance in toddlers.
Causes
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, temporary lactose intolerance is generally caused by problems with the digestive system. One major cause of temporary lactose intolerance is gastrointestinal infections, like rotavirus, which produces vomiting and diarrhea. Diarrhea causes this condition because it damages the villi, or finger-like projections in the small intestines, which is where the enzyme lactase is found. Temporary lactose intolerance also can occur if toddlers have celiac disease or are taking antibiotics.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lactose intolerance include gas, bloating, stomach cramps and diarrhea, but the severity of the symptoms is depends on how much lactose was not absorbed by the body. For example, 12 g of lactose, which can be found in an 8 oz. glass of milk, might be enough to cause abdominal pain. Diarrhea occurs because the lactose sitting in the body draws fluid and electrolytes to the intestine, which creates loose stools, and gas is the result of bacteria metabolizing leftover lactose.
Tips
If your toddler is experiencing temporary lactose intolerance, you need to provide a diet that is low in lactose but calcium-rich. This can be accomplished by purchasing reduced or lactose-free milk and including other non-lactose foods. Foods rich in calcium that could be helpful during this time include broccoli, beans, tofu and soy milk. In addition, be aware of foods that contain milk products that might not be recognizable. Look for things like whey, curds and nonfat dry milk powder when reading food labels.
