Bloody stools are usually a sign of an injury or other problem in some part of the digestive tract. If this condition worsens when you eat foods containing lactose such as dairy products, it may be caused or aggravated by lactose intolerance. Only your doctor can diagnose and treat the causes of bloody stools.
Blood in the Stool
Blood in the stool can change your stool color. Black stools usually indicate bleeding in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract, which turns black as it moves through the digestive system. Bright red or maroon stools often contain blood from the lower part of the intestinal system -- the anus, rectum or large intestine. In rare cases, it may also be a sign of heavy bleeding in the stomach. However, some foods, such as beets, red licorice and iron pills can also turn your stools red or black. Visit your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
Lactose Intolerance
People who are lactose intolerant are deficient in the enzyme lactase, normally produced in the small intestines. Without lactase, lactose -- a type of sugar found in milk products -- cannot be broken down and properly absorbed, which can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, swelling, cramping, gas, nausea and diarrhea. Bowel surgery and intestinal disease or damage can also cause lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance or milk allergies may cause a small amount of blood to appear in the stool, especially in children. Your doctor can diagnose and recommend treatment for lactose intolerance. However, large amounts of blood in the stool may indicate the presence of another, more serious issue.
Lactose-Free Diet
If your stools become bloodier after eating lactose, you may need to reduce or eliminate lactose from your diet. However, this may not mean completely eliminating dairy products, since not all types of dairy contain the same amount of lactose. Hard cheeses generally have less lactose than soft cheeses. Yogurt is also generally well-tolerated. Some people, however, may have to avoid lactose completely. In this case, make sure to continue to get enough calcium from foods such as almonds, salmon, soy and rice milk, tofu and green vegetables including broccoli, kale, spinach and bok choy.
Recommendations
Unfortunately, it is not possible to increase the body's production of lactase. Try avoiding lactose-rich foods like dairy to diminish or eliminate your symptoms. Many packaged foods, such as salad dressings, soups and deli meat contain hidden lactose. Make a habit of reading ingredient labels for whey, milk powder, milk solids and milk byproducts, all of which contain lactose. Drinking milk with food instead of by itself may help. Over-the-counter lactase pills or drops help some people digest lactose. Take them shortly before eating dairy products or add them directly to milk. If you experience abdominal pain and bloody stools shortly after consuming lactose, see your doctor for a diagnosis and advice.
