Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body is unable to digest the simple sugar lactose, which is commonly found in milk and other dairy foods and drinks. Lactose is also present in breast milk and baby formula. The small intestine produces lactase, an enzyme that helps the body break down lactose. Though it's rather rare in babies and typically appears in older children or teenagers, some babies do suffer from lactose intolerance.
About Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is not common in babies, according to MayoClinic.com. It tends to be most common in babies who are born prematurely, as their digestive systems have not yet had time to fully develop and may not yet produce lactase. Lactase production typically increases toward the end of the third trimester of pregnancy. Some babies with lactose intolerance may have inherited the condition from both of their parents.
Severe Diarrhea
The primary symptom of lactose intolerance in babies is severe diarrhea. Severe diarrhea caused by lactose intolerance can occur in both breast-fed and formula-fed babies. The diarrhea tends to strike in as little as 30 minutes after a feeding, says Medline Plus.
Fussiness and Gas
Lactose intolerance can also cause your baby to suffer from bad gas or abdominal bloating. Because of the pain and discomfort caused by consuming lactose when someone is lactose intolerant, your baby may also be extremely fussy and irritable following a feeding. These symptoms may be mild in some babies and more severe in others, according to MayoClinic.com.
Poor Growth
Babies who are lactose intolerant may grow slowly and fail to put on weight at the expected rate, says Medline Plus. Lactose intolerance affects digestion, which means that your baby may not be able to absorb all of the calories and nutrients he needs to grow, thrive, gain weight and be healthy.
Lactose-Free Formula
Babies showing symptoms of lactose intolerance typically need a special formula that is lactose-free to ease their symptoms. Speak with your child's pediatrician about switching to lactose-free formula from breast milk or regular formula. Schedule an appointment with your baby's pediatrician if you suspect lactose intolerance due to poor growth, fussiness and gas and diarrhea following feedings. Your child's pediatrician may suggest changing the baby's diet to see if symptoms subside and your baby begins to gain weight.
