Lactose intolerant symptoms
are not difficult to diagnose, a simple breath-hydrogen test or blood tests will do the trick. However, at least 20% of people who believe they are not lactose intolerant are, and the flip side of the coin dictates that 20% of people who believe they are lactose intolerant aren’t. But there are a very large percentage of people globally who suffer from lactose intolerant symptoms.
Symptoms may be similar to a food allergy, so, these may get confused. But one thing which should be never be confused, is the fact that lactose intolerance is NOT a food allergy. Symptoms are; excess gas, stomach pain, abdominal distention or bloating, diarrhea and even nausea or vomiting.
One way to self-diagnose an intolerance is to completely withdraw all dairy products, which also includes any foods sweetened with lactose. This is known as the elimination diet, and it needs to take place for at least two weeks as a rigorous process. When dealing with children who are still growing, take care, supervision is required. Dairy products are a vital part of any diet, but in particular in children. Supplements and supplemental foods need to be introduced into the diet.
After a two week withdrawal from milk and dairy products; if the symptoms have diminished or disappeared, it is time to take the ‘challenge’. The challenge is a re-introduction of dairy back into the diet in small amounts. This tests tolerance and helps the digestion respond to smaller amounts of lactose, without being overwhelmed. Too much lactose cannot be broken down in the small intestine, which causes the gastrointestinal symptoms.
Lactose intolerant symptoms
may take as much as two or three days to reoccur, if they are going to recur. Obviously the point is to only drink a half-glass of milk or eat a small piece of cheese, and wait to see what takes place. People with baffling gastrointestinal symptoms may be looking for a rationalization for these symptoms. Lactose intolerance is very well-known, so, provides people with just such an explanation. The elimination and re-introduction diet will tell.
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