Lactose, a type of sugar molecule, is mainly found in milk and dairy products. Foods containing lactose, such as yogurt, cheese, bread, cereal, and ice cream are common in most diets, although some individuals cannot properly digest these foods. The medical term for this condition is called lactose intolerance, meaning that the molecule cannot be properly broken down and digested.
Often, it can be difficult to diagnose lactose intolerance until you have detected a trend in your eating habits. If you feel as though you might be lactose intolerant, here are a few signs to look out for:
1. Stomach pain
The consumption of lactose-containing food products can result in abdominal pain of various severities. Depending on the level of your intolerance, you may experience mild cramps or severe pain in your abdomen. This is caused by the fermentation of leftover lactose in the colon, resulting in excess water and gas in the body. Most individuals who experience this symptom tend to feel pain surrounding their navel and lower abdomen.
2. Diarrhea or loose stools
Lactose intolerance can result in an excess amount of water in your colon, directly leading to diarrhea and loose stools. Diarrhea severity can range from 30 minutes to a full 48 hours after your consumption of lactose-containing products. To combat this symptom, consider replacing regular dairy products with organic products. One example of this is switching regular milk out for lactose free organic milk.
3. Increased gas or bloating
Bloating is a symptom in which an increased amount of gas from the malabsorption of lactose can build up in your abdomen. This can cause your stomach to become firm and hard while appearing to have swollen. Your stomach may often hurt to the touch and be uncomfortable to deal with. To combat this, you can try taking probiotics after your consumption of dairy products.
4. Constipation
Constipation is typically a much rarer symptom than any of the others associated with lactose intolerance. During the fermentation of undigested lactose, methane gas is produced in the colon. Methane is typically thought to slow the process of excretion and can lead to this symptom in some individuals. These bowel movements can be painful and likely disrupt your daily activities.
5. Headaches
While it is obvious that lactose intolerance can lead to gastrointestinal issues, migraines and similar symptoms are typically overlooked. Recent studies have shown that a little over half of all individuals suffering from lactose intolerance experience frequent headaches. These migraines are due to the stress placed on the gastrointestinal system whenever lactose cannot be digested properly.
6. Mouth ulcers
Food sensitivities are one of the main contributing factors to mouth ulcers. Ulcers are painful sores that typically develop on the stomach lining or gastrointestinal tract; however, if your body is sensitive to certain foods, they may develop in your mouth. Instead of purchasing regular dairy products, be sure to look out for products such as milk without lactose. By making minor changes to your diet, your gastrointestinal system will feel much better.
Lactose intolerance affects nearly 70% of the American population. If you have experienced any of these symptoms, be sure to mention it on your next doctor’s visit. He/she will most likely prescribe medications or lifestyle changes (i.e., elimination diet) to lessen your symptoms and improve quality of life.