FollowHow to Tell if You Are Lactose Intolerant
Do you experience gas, nausea, diarrhea and/or bloating within a couple of hours of consuming milk or products that contain milk? Chances are you are lactose intolerant. Here are some ways that you can tell if you are lactose intolerant.
Learn About Lactose
What is Lactose? Lactose is found in milk and milk-based products and is a natural sugar. When it is consumed and enters the body, it is broken down into what is called glucose and then transformed into energy. Foods that contain high amounts of this substance, besides milk, include cheese, ice cream, butter, yogurt, pudding, custard, sherbet, coffee creamer, cream sauces and whipped cream.
What Does It Mean To Be Lactose Intolerant? When you are lactose intolerant, your body has a hard time to digest this substance. It is important to understand that being lactose intolerant is different from being allergic to milk. With a milk allergy, your body will have a reaction to milk proteins and you will experience symptoms such as vomiting, hives and wheezing, almost right after drinking milk.
What Are The Signs of Having This Condition? If you have this condition, the onset of symptoms will appear between half an hour and two hours after consuming milk or products containing milk. Signs that may appear include bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and/or gas.
How Is It Diagnosed? Besides having the common symptoms, your doctor can confirm whether or not you are lactose intolerant. They will get information about your medical history and perform a physical medical exam. Also, a hydrogen breath test as well as a lactose tolerance test will be performed.
What Are The Treatments? There are several treatment options to help you cope with having this condition. One treatment option is over the counter medications, designed to control it. Some of the more popular OTC medications include Lactaid, Lactose Fast Acting Relief, Dairy Relief and Ultra Dairy Digestive. Other treatment options include consuming foods that contain probiotics, such as dark chocolate, sauerkraut, pickles and olives. Probiotics are designed to help your body break down lactose.
