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<\/h2>\nLactose intolerance is a condition in which the body cannot properly digest lactose, the sugar in milk. This can cause bloating, abdominal discomfort, gas, or loose stools after consuming milk or ice cream.<\/p>\n
Many people avoid dairy for years without knowing the exact cause of their discomfort. That's why testing for lactose intolerance is important \u2014 it helps distinguish a true enzyme deficiency from a food allergy, irritable bowel syndrome, or a reaction to other foods.<\/p>\n
Lactose is broken down by the enzyme lactase. If there is not enough of the enzyme, the lactose is not digested and begins to ferment in the large intestine.<\/p>\n
The reasons may be different:<\/p>\n
\u2022 genetic characteristics (the body naturally produces less lactase)
\u2022 age-related decrease in the enzyme
\u2022 foodborne infections or intestinal inflammation
\u2022 intolerance after acute illnesses
\u2022 consequences of celiac disease or malabsorption syndromes<\/p>\n
Intolerance is rare in young children, but the prevalence increases with age.<\/p>\n
Not all symptoms occur at the same time, but a typical set looks like this:<\/p>\n
\u2022 bloating 30\u2013120 minutes after milk
\u2022 bubbling, gases
\u2022 cramps or aching pain
\u2022 diarrhea or very loose stools
\u2022 nausea after dairy products
\u2022 an unpleasant feeling in the stomach after ice cream, milk, cream<\/p>\n
Many people find relief by eliminating milk itself, but can tolerate yogurt or hard cheeses\u2014an important diagnostic clue.<\/p>\n
<\/h2>\nTesting can be simple, non-invasive, or genetic, depending on the situation.<\/p>\n
One of the most reliable. After taking lactose, the patient exhales into a special device that measures hydrogen levels. If the lactose is not broken down, the hydrogen levels increase.<\/p>\n
Advantages: non-invasive, suitable for adults and children.<\/p>\n
The glucose level is measured after taking lactose. If the glucose does not increase, the enzyme is not enough.<\/p>\n
Pros: fast. Cons: less sensitive.<\/p>\n
Examines gene variants responsible for lactase production. Shows whether there is a hereditary predisposition.<\/p>\n
It is well suited when symptoms are vague or you want to get an answer "once and for all".<\/p>\n
Detects organic acids, a product of lactose fermentation. Most often used in young children.<\/p>\n
| Method<\/th>\n | For whom<\/th>\n | Best suited when<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrogen breath<\/td>\n | adults, children<\/td>\n | need an exact answer<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Blood after lactose<\/td>\n | adults<\/td>\n | there are restrictions on the breath test<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Genetic<\/a><\/td>\n | all<\/td>\n | suspicion of hereditary intolerance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Stool test<\/a><\/td>\n | children under 3 years old<\/td>\n | other methods are not available<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhen to take the test<\/h2>\nA doctor may recommend testing if:<\/p>\n \u2022 bloating or diarrhea regularly occurs after milk The check will help you avoid self-imposed strict diets and improper restrictions.<\/p>\n How to prepare for the test<\/h2>\nThe preparation is quite simple, but important:<\/p>\n |