🍽️ Lactose {Milk Sugar}

Lactose Intolerance: Lactose intolerance is a common condition characterized by the inability to digest lactose due to insufficient levels of the enzyme lactase. Lactase is needed to break down lactose into glucose and galactose for absorption in the intestine. In individuals with lactose intolerance, undigested lactose passes into the colon, where it ferments and causes symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Managing lactose intolerance typically involves reducing or avoiding lactose-containing foods and beverages or using lactase supplements to aid digestion.

Malabsorption Syndromes: Certain malabsorption syndromes, such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease, can damage the intestinal lining and reduce the production of lactase enzyme, leading to secondary lactose intolerance. In these cases, avoiding lactose-containing foods may help alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms.

Galactosemia: Galactosemia is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the inability to metabolize galactose, one of the sugars in lactose. Infants with galactosemia must avoid breastfeeding and formula containing lactose to prevent complications such as liver damage, developmental delays, and cataracts. They require a galactose-free diet throughout their lives.

Infantile Diarrhea: In infants, excessive lactose intake, particularly from breastfeeding or formula feeding, can sometimes lead to infantile diarrhea, characterized by frequent loose stools. In such cases, reducing lactose intake may help improve symptoms.

Nutrient Deficiency: Avoiding dairy products due to lactose intolerance or other reasons may result in inadequate intake of essential nutrients found in dairy, such as calcium, vitamin D, and riboflavin. It's important for individuals who avoid lactose-containing foods to ensure they obtain these nutrients from other dietary sources or supplements to support overall health and prevent deficiencies.

Bone Health: Reduced intake of dairy products containing lactose may impact bone health, as dairy is a major source of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone growth and maintenance. Individuals with lactose intolerance or those who avoid dairy should ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D from alternative sources to support bone health.

Weight Management: For individuals looking to manage their weight, reducing or avoiding lactose-containing foods may be a strategy, particularly if high-calorie dairy products contribute to excess calorie intake. However, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet that provides all necessary nutrients, even when limiting lactose-containing foods.