Diseases

Lactose Intolerance

Back

Lactose intolerance: the inability to digest lactose, a component of milk and some other dairy products. The basis for lactose intolerance is the lack of an enzyme called lactase in the small intestine. The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance are diarrhea, bloating, and gas.

SYMPTOMS

Pain areas: in the abdomen
Gastrointestinal: belching, bloating, diarrhoea, fat in stool, indigestion, flatulence, or stomach cramps
Also common: baby colic or malaise

CAUSES

Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of the intestinal enzyme lactase that splits lactose into two smaller sugars, glucose and galactose, and allows lactose to be absorbed from the intestine. Virtually all individuals are born with lactase and the ability to digest lactose.