Lactose is a natural sugar found in dairy products. In order for the intestines and the body to absorb it properly, your small intestine produces lactase – which is an enzyme responsible for breaking down the sugar.
If the small intestine is unable to produce lactase, the lactose is left undigested as it transfers to the large intestine. This creates the uncomfortable symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.
Fortunately, treatments for lactose intolerance are usually enough to control the condition. Moreover, many patients with this condition can generally tolerate consuming a certain amount of lactose before symptoms start to appear, which include bloating, excessive flatulence, cramps, and diarrhea.
Dairy products that are rich in lactose include milk, ice cream, cheese, and butter. Consume smaller servings of dairy, and experiment with various dairy products to see which foods cause symptoms in your body.
How Can I Treat My Lactose Intolerance?
In addition to minimizing or eliminating your intake of dairy, some of the other methods of controlling and treating lactose intolerance include the following:
Take Lactase Enzyme Supplements
Over-the-counter enzyme supplements containing lactase can help you digest some dairy products if you are lactose intolerant. These supplements come in tablet form, and they should be taken before you eat; they also come in liquid or powder form, which you can add in your food. The effect of lactase enzyme supplements varies from person to person, and it may not work for everyone who has lactose intolerance.
Slowly Increase Tolerance
You can also try to decrease your symptoms of lactose intolerance by slowly introducing lactose into your diet. Your body may respond by gradually increasing lactase production. Talk to your gastroenterologist about whether this may work in your case.
Try Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms in our intestines that help keep our digestive system healthy and functioning properly. Several studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce symptoms of lactose intolerance. Bifidobacterium animalis, which can be found in certain yogurts (such as Activia), is one of the most researched and most effective at achieving this. Probiotics are also available as supplements in capsules, and they are safe to try if other methods don’t work.
Maintain Nutritional Balance
Dairy is one of our major sources of calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth, regulates muscle contractions, and ensures that the blood clots normally. If you are lactose intolerant, you can consume enough calcium by doing the following:
- Opt for skim milk if you can tolerate low-fat milk products.
- Try almond, soy, or oat milk, which are supplemented with calcium.
- Eat fish with edible bones, such as canned salmon or sardines.
- Enjoy plenty of broccoli, leafy greens, bread with fortified flour, and oranges.
- Eat nuts that are rich in calcium, which include almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts.
Lactose Intolerance Treatments in Austin, Texas
The various treatments for lactose intolerance work differently for each patient. Consult with an experienced gastroenterologist to help you identify which method is best for you.
Here at Austin Gastroenterology, our physicians and staff maintain the highest standards in keeping our patients safe and healthy. We have more than 30 board-certified gastroenterologists and more than two dozen medical specialists who provide quality healthcare that is always individualized to the patient.
To find out more about our services or to schedule an appointment, call our North Offices (Cedar Park and surrounding area) at (512) 244-2273, Central Offices (Bailey Square and surrounding area) at (512) 454-4588, or South Offices (Marble Falls and surrounding area) at (512) 448-4588. You may also fill out our online form now to request an appointment. We look forward to helping you feel great!
