
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a condition in which individuals are sensitive to the sugar found in milk and dairy products. lactose It is the inability of the body to digest sugar. This condition prevents the body from producing enough lactase enzyme It occurs when the enzyme lactase breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose. Lactose intolerance is known as a common health problem worldwide and can negatively affect the daily lives of individuals.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience various symptoms. These symptoms are the discomfort caused by the inability to digest lactose. Here are the most common symptoms of lactose intolerance:
- Abdominal pain and bloating: Undigested lactose causes gas accumulation in the intestines, creating abdominal pain and a feeling of bloating.
- Diarrhea: Lactose draws fluid into the intestines, causing diarrhea.
- Nausea: When lactose cannot be digested, stomach discomfort and nausea may occur.
- Gas and burping: Gas production increases as undigested lactose is fermented.
- Abdominal cramps: An increase in bowel movements can lead to abdominal cramps.
Causes of Lactose Intolerance
There are various causes of lactose intolerance, ranging from genetic factors to age-related changes:
- Genetic predisposition: This condition is more likely to occur in individuals with a family history of lactose intolerance.
- Age: Production of the enzyme lactase may decrease with age, so lactose intolerance usually occurs in adulthood.
- Intestinal diseases: Conditions such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease can negatively affect lactase production.
- Intestinal infections: Intestinal infections can temporarily reduce lactase enzyme levels.
Methods That Are Good for Lactose Intolerance
There are some nutritional recommendations and methods for individuals experiencing lactose intolerance. These methods can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Consume lactose-free products: You can change your diet by choosing products such as lactose-free milk, cheese and yogurt.
- Lactase enzyme supplements: Lactase tablets taken before meals can aid digestion.
- Herbal alternatives: Plant-based milks such as soy milk, almond milk and oat milk can be considered good alternatives.
- Probiotics: Foods containing probiotics may help relieve symptoms by supporting gut health.
- Balanced diet: Apart from dairy products, it is important to consume foods rich in calcium and vitamin D. Foods such as green leafy vegetables, almonds and salmon can be preferred.
Foods Containing Lactose
It is important for individuals with lactose intolerance to be familiar with foods that contain lactose. Here are some common foods that contain lactose:
- Milk and milk products: Products such as whole milk, yogurt, butter, cream and cheese contain high amounts of lactose.
- Processed foods: Products such as soup mixes, ready-made muffins and puddings may also contain lactose.
- Sugary products: Milk chocolate, ice cream and milk desserts are foods rich in lactose.
- Some medications and vitamins: Lactose can be used as a filler in some medications.
As a result
Lactose intolerance is a common condition that affects the quality of life of individuals. Recognizing its symptoms and taking appropriate measures is very important to cope with this condition. Intolerance symptoms can be alleviated with lactose-free products, lactase supplements and a balanced diet. It should be noted that each individual's intolerance may manifest itself in different ways; therefore, personal experiences and doctor's recommendations should also be taken into account.