Lactose Intolerance (What Causes It)

About 3 out of every 4 people suffer from lactose intolerance. Many will know that they are lactose intolerant by the connection between their symptoms and the eating of dairy products. Lactose intolerance is not a disease but a normal variant of the human genetic make-up. As adults, fewer of us are able to tolerate dairy containing lactose. The symptoms we experience differ in severity from person to person and with the amount and type of dairy products we consume. Most people with lactose intolerance can tolerate the amount of lactose contained in a standard glass of milk. When we exceed this amount, we develop bloating and abdominal symptoms that are typical of lactose intolerance. What fewer people are aware of is that there are various forms of lactase deficiency that cause the symptoms of lactose intolerance. Hereditary forms exist, some of which can be fatal in newborns if not recognized for what they are. Management of the common type of lactose intolerance is simple, and most people can avoid developing the symptoms of lactose intolerance. The most important fact is that we must replace those nutrients found in dairy products with alternatives if we are to remain healthy.