Lactose intolerance is far more common than you might think – it is the global norm – many more people are lactose intolerant than not. Europeans developed increased lactase production over tens of thousands of years following famines and diseases, and at the beginning, consuming milk caused severe health issues in many generations. So it is very possible that you are lactose intolerant if you are not European and Caucasian, and possibly even if you are.

Most people think that lactose intolerance symptoms are only gastric. Still, for many people who regularly eat lactose while intolerant to it, it can cause chronic fatigue, aches and pains in joints, skin and hair issues and generalised inflammation. Knowing the longer-term health impact of eating lactose when you are intolerant is vital.

When you eat foods that cause inflammation in the gut, you reduce the gut’s ability to absorb important nutrients and act healthily in its role in many systems in the body. For example, the gut helps the body produce much of its serotonin, so that lactose intolerance can result in low mood as well as physical symptoms.

Causes

Lactose intolerance occurs when the body cannot produce enough lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose. Lactase is produced in the small intestine, and without enough of this enzyme, lactose remains undigested and passes through the digestive system. This can cause discomfort and a range of symptoms.

Several factors, including genetics, age, and certain medical conditions, can cause lactose intolerance. Some people are born with this condition, while others develop it later in life. As we age, our bodies may produce less lactase, increasing lactose intolerance risk. Additionally, some medical conditions, such as coeliac disease and Crohn’s disease, can damage the small intestine and reduce lactase production.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance

The symptoms can vary from person to person and depend on the amount of lactose consumed. Some people may experience mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms. The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance include:

• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea

These symptoms can occur within a few minutes or hours after consuming lactose-containing foods. Some people may also experience headaches, fatigue, and joint pain.

Diagnosis of lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance can be diagnosed through several tests, including lactose tolerance and hydrogen breath tests. In a lactose tolerance test, the patient is given a lactose solution to drink, and their blood sugar levels are monitored over time. If the blood sugar levels do not rise, it indicates that the body is not digesting lactose properly.

In a hydrogen breath test, the patient is given a lactose solution to drink, and their breath is analysed for hydrogen gas. If the body is not digesting lactose properly, it can produce excess hydrogen gas, which can be detected in the breath.

Our lactose intolerance test costs £145, and results take just 3 – 5 days.

You can also consider an elimination diet. Remove lactose from your diet entirely for two weeks and see if your symptoms subside. If they return after resuming lactose, then you have your answer. Remember that food intolerance symptoms can be confused with other conditions, so it is always worth seeing a doctor if your symptoms do not subside.

Treatment

The most effective way to manage lactose intolerance is to avoid food containing lactose. This includes milk, cheese, butter, and other dairy products.

Some people with lactose intolerance may be able to tolerate small amounts of lactose, while others may need to avoid it completely. Lactase enzyme supplements are also available, which can help the body digest lactose more effectively.

In conclusion, lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder that can cause many uncomfortable symptoms. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively through dietary changes and the use of lactase enzyme supplements. If you suspect that you may have intolerant to lactose, it is important to speak to a doctor to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan and to exclude other causes of your symptoms.