A Large number of people in America are Lactose Intolerant, i.e; their body is unable to digest lactose- a natural form of sugar present in dairy and milk products. A common misconception that people have is that lactose intolerance is the same as milk allergy. In fact, even if you are allergic to milk your body may be able to digest other food products that contain lactose. At Allergy Test we always recommend to get a proper test and diagnose instead of assuming allergies or claiming to be lactose intolerant.
Undigested lactose is the cause for many problems such as gas, stomach ache, bloating and more. But again, these problems can arise as a result of many other reasons and only a test can determine exact causes.
The level of lactose Intolerance also varies from individual to individual. Some lactose intolerant people may not be able to digest any kind of milk product while others may be able to digest small amounts or different kinds of milk products. It is a very common problem amongst Native Americans and people from South America.
The problem lies in understanding how to manage proper diets without causing health issues and lack of calcium. Though lactose intolerance starts showing signs in early years, sometimes it can start much later. It occurs when the small intestine stops producing an enzyme called lactase that is essential for breaking down and digesting lactose.
Common Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance include:
- Bloating
- Stomach pain/cramps
- Rumbling sounds in the stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
As mentioned earlier, all these symptoms can be caused by a large number of health problems and do not necessarily point to lactose Intolerance. Assuming that you are lactose intolerance and giving up milk and dairy products can lead to calcium deficiency and week bones. Allergytest.co recommends proper testing and diagnosis before making such major decisions that could lead to severe impacts.
Understanding your level of intolerance or understanding if you have an allergy to something specific is necessary for proper treatment and precaution. Our health cannot be managed based on ‘things we feel and read’. A proper test and diagnosis is essential to know the exact cause, impact and effect’ and this proper treatment and care. Get yourself and your loved ones tested and plan healthy diets accordingly. Living a healthy diet is key to a long and happy life.
