A condition caused by a lack of an enzyme called lactase, which, in turn, causes the body to be unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk products. Common symptoms, which begin about 30 minutes to two hours after consuming foods or beverages containing lactose, may include: nausea, cramps, bloating, gas and/or diarrhea. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of lactose consumed and the amount that an individual can tolerate. Also: Lactose Intolerant

	Allergy to Cow's Milk The Condition "Although cow's milk allergy and cow's milk intolerance (lactose intolerance) are two different terms, they are often used interchangeably, resulting in confusion both in clinical practice and in research reports..." Relationship to Lactose Intolerance "One study found that of 24 milk-allergic individuals studied, half were found to be lactose intolerant..." Crohn's Disease The Condition "...For some, they are lactose intolerant and feel better avoiding dairy products; for others, they avoid raw vegetables..." Dairy Products Avoidance As A Treatment "Whether through allergy, lactose intolerance, hormone contamination or infectious agents, the consumption of dairy products has contributed to chronic health problems in both children and adults..." Diarrhea The Condition "...Many disorders can cause chronic watery diarrhea including carbohydrate malabsorption (lactose intolerance, sorbitol, fructose), intestinal infections or inflammation, unusual hormone-secreting tumors, and irritable bowel syndrome..." Increased Intestinal Permeability / Leaky Gut The Condition "...celiac disease, lactase deficiency causing lactose intolerance..." Lactose Intolerance The Condition "One of the most common nonallergenic food sensitivities is lactose intolerance..." Our Question about generalized abdominal discomfort "Recurrent abdominal pain is a symptom of lactose intolerance..." Recommendation Lactobacillus Acidophilus "Adding sufficient acidophilus bacteria or commercial preparations of the enzyme lactose to milk-containing meals will prevent symptoms and improve nutrient absorption for individuals with lactose intolerance, but not for those allergic to milk..." Motherhood Issues The Condition "...Cows' Milk, Lactose Intolerance Since lactose is found in mother's milk, almost all infants of nursing age are able to digest it..." Osteoporosis - Osteopenia The Condition "...Although diet is the best way to ensure adequate calcium intake, supplements may be needed by ... people with lactose intolerance, coeliac disease or malabsorption problems..." Vinegar As A Treatment "...For indigestion, gastic reflux, IBS, bad breath, diverticulus, fatty liver, lactose intolerance, allergies, fatigue..."

Last updated: May 10, 2007