Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is the sugar found in milk and dairy products like cheese, yogurt and ice cream. To digest lactose, your body needs an enzyme called lactase. Lactase is produced in the small intestine.
People with lactose intolerance don't produce enough lactase. Without sufficient lactase, undigested lactose travels to the large intestine. Here, bacteria ferment the lactose, producing gas, including hydrogen, carbon dioxide and methane. This fermentation also leads to the release of fluids into the intestines.
This fermentation process can lead to a variety of unpleasant symptoms. This includes bloating, excessive flatulence, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and nausea.
Lactose intolerance can develop at any age, even if you previously were completely fine having lactose-containing products. Lactase production decreases with age and as such you are more likely to develop intolerance as you get older.
Certain ethnicities are also more prone to lactose intolerance over others.
If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor may recommend breath tests or food elimination. They will then discuss the optimal management strategy, including dietary changes and enzyme supplementation.
Additional videos on a range of common conditions are available to view on the Gastroenterology Specialist Care YouTube channel.
Note, this video is not a medical consultation. Any medical information is general in nature and is not intended to provide individual clinical advice. You should contact your doctor or other healthcare professional in relation to any concerns they may have, as your own circumstances may be different.
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