How do I know if my dairy sensitivity is lactose intolerance?
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Your symptoms could be a result of many different conditions (e.g. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Lactose Intolerance or Milk Allergy). There is a simple test that can help you determine if lactose from dairy is causing your discomfort. Follow this link to take the Dairy Digestion Test. Please note, if you aren´t sure how your digestive system will react, we recommend taking the test on the weekend or at a time when you plan to be mostly at home. If this test indicates you may be lactose intolerant, you should confirm the diagnosis with your doctor. If you are lactose intolerant, LactoDigest™ Products can help you enjoy dairy without the discomfort.
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Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest a sugar called lactose that´s found mainly in milk and dairy products. Normally, the small intestine produces an enzyme called lactase, which breaks down lactose into two simple sugars, glucose and galactose, that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. People whose bodies don’t make enough lactase can´t fully digest lactose, causing mild to uncomfortable side effects.
Some people have a higher chance of being lactose intolerant. These groups include Hispanics, African Americans, Asians and people of Jewish descent. It also affects adults more than children, since the body produces less lactase enzyme as people age.
What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance?
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Common signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance include:
1.Abdominal pain
2.Diarrhea
3.Gas
4.Bloating
These symptoms can be mild or severe depending on the amount of lactose consumed and the degree of lactase deficiency. Some people who produce small amounts of lactase may be able to tolerate small servings of dairy products and other foods containing lactose. Symptoms may appear anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours after eating dairy.
How is lactose intolerance diagnosed?
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Lactose intolerance can be difficult to diagnose through symptoms alone, as similar symptoms may be caused by other conditions. The best way to confirm the condition is through specific tests ordered by your doctor. And if you don’t have lactose intolerance, testing can point to other conditions that may be causing discomfort.
The most common self-diagnosis test used to measure the absorption of lactose in the digestive system is the dairy digestion test. If this test indicates you may be lactose intolerant, you should confirm the diagnosis with your doctor. If desired, your doctor can administer a Hydrogen Breath Test to diagnose Lactose Intolerance.
How do you break down the lactose in your products?
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LactoDigest™ Products contain lactase, a natural enzyme that helps break down lactose – the sugar found in dairy foods like milk, ice cream or cheese – into two simple sugars (galactose and glucose) that are easily digested. If not properly digested, lactose can cause gas, bloating, cramps, and/or diarrhea. LactoDigest™ Products can help people who have a sensitivity to dairy due to lactose digest dairy products without stomach discomfort.
How is lactose intolerance treated?
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While there's no cure for lactose intolerance, it can be managed easily.
The reccomended methods are to:
1. Be aware of what foods contain lactose. Know that some foods containing are better tolerated
than others, such as yogurt and other fermented dairy products, and hard, aged cheeses.
2. Use LactoDigestâ„¢ Brand products to fully enjoy the dairy products you love without
the discomfort.