By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
A glass of milk, bowl of ice cream or slice of cheese may have caused no problems for years — until suddenly it does.
For many adults, that change can be tied to lactose intolerance, a digestive condition that becomes more common as people age.
Lactose is the natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. The body relies on an enzyme called lactase to break it down. As people get older, lactase production may decrease, allowing undigested lactose to reach the colon. That can trigger bloating, gas, abdominal cramping, nausea or diarrhea.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that lactose malabsorption is common worldwide and occurs more frequently among people with African, Asian, Hispanic/Latino and American Indian ancestry.
But dairy-related discomfort is not always lactose intolerance.
Similar symptoms can occur with irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease and other digestive conditions. Lactose intolerance is also different from a milk allergy, which involves the immune system. Symptoms such as blood in the stool, significant weight loss or persistent abdominal pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
The good news is that lactose intolerance does not always mean giving up dairy entirely. Some people can tolerate smaller servings, yogurt, hard cheeses or lactose-free products. Lactase tablets may also help.
Those who cut back on dairy should pay attention to calcium and vitamin D intake, which support bone health.
The important message: if foods you once tolerated suddenly begin causing digestive problems, do not simply assume it is “just getting older.” A healthcare provider can help determine the cause and whether dietary changes are needed.