studycentre

As per statistics, about 70% of Indians are lactose intolerant with the incidence higher in southern Indian than in the North. lactose intolerance is one of the most common forms of food intolerance. Those who consciously or unconsciously avoid milk due to this disorder do not realize that they need a supplement to replenish calcium levels in their body. According to IMA, a deficiency of calcium can lead to problems at a later age and therefore, one should include other sources of calcium in one's diet.

lactose intolerance is caused when one cannot digest the high amount of sugar present in milk, called lactose. This is because they don’t have enough secretions of lactase, an enzyme that helps break down this sugar. Such people can, therefore, not digest milk or milk products. Symptoms of lactose intolerance is Irritable Bowel Syndrome which causes belly discomfort and change in the bowel habits overtime. Other symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, and cramps usually in the lower half of the belly.

Tips to follow.

• Choose smaller dairy servings. This will make it less likely for you to get gastrointestinal problems.nDrinking milk with other foods can help slow down the digestive process and therefore lessen the symptoms too.
• all dairy products have the same amount of lactose. Try cultured milk products such as yogurt which carry enzymes that can help break down lactose.
• opting for lactose-free products. Watch out for hidden lactose in cereals, instant soups, salad dressings, non-dairy creamers, and baking mixes.
• Take lactase enzyme tablets or drops in consultation with your doctor.

— Courtesy Indian Medical Association