Considering the fact that about seventy per cent of the world population, primarily Asian, African and South American people are known to suffer from lactose intolerance, the lack of awareness about the same comes across as a rude shock. With some choosing to confuse the condition with milk allergies or lactose malabsorption and others simply refusing to acknowledge the symptoms at all, this is a condition that’s often misconstrued by the common man.
Here, we try to decode the common genesis of this problem along with ways to tackle and deal with the same.
Understanding the cause
“Lactose intolerance occurs when the small intestine produces insufficient amounts of lactase, an enzyme needed to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. This deficiency can be genetic, age-related, or triggered by intestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease. Without enough lactase, lactose passes undigested into the colon, where bacteria ferment it, leading to symptoms,” shares Dr Imran Shaikh, HPB Surgeon and GI Oncosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. As a condition that’s proclaimed to develop or get worse over time, early care and precaution becomes of the utmost importance to prevent long-term effects.
How to classify the cause
Broadly dissected into four categories, the causes of this condition are none too few.
Primary lactose intolerance, the most widely found type, is caused due to the natural depletion of the enzyme lactase in the body with age which prevents lactose breaking down into simpler sugars in the small intestine.
The other type, known as secondary lactose intolerance, is more rarely found in people suffering from some disease in their small intestine which negatively impacts the production of lactase.
Congenital lactose intolerance is a rare condition present from birth caused by a genetic defect which inhibits the yield of lactase in the body.
Often found in cases of premature birth, developmental lactose intolerance occurs as a result of an underdeveloped small intestine in the newborn.
Symptoms
Depending on parameters like lactose deficiency level and amount of lactose consumed by the individual, the symptoms can range from placid to profound. Abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting can commonly occur as a result of lactose indigestion which can subsequently lead to weight loss, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance in the long term.
“In some cases, people may experience cramping or a feeling of fullness. Symptoms typically appear 30 minutes to two hours after consuming dairy and can vary day-to-day. Though uncomfortable, lactose intolerance symptoms are generally not life-threatening but can significantly impact quality of life if untreated,” shares Dr Shaikh.
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Impact on daily life
While the symptoms may seem passable to many, their impact on the person suffering from them is bound to interrupt their daily clockwork. Recounting her personal experience of being affected by this condition, Jhanvi Jain, a second-year graduate student narrates, “Beyond the social aspect, it affects my daily routine significantly. From missing out on simple pleasures like a morning cappuccino to having to double-check every food label, it requires constant vigilance. Dining out becomes a challenge and sometimes, I have to settle for the most boring options on the menu just to avoid discomfort. It’s an ongoing struggle, but over time, I’ve learned to adapt and find alternatives that work for me.”
Dealing with the problem
Akshata Chavan, clinical dietician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central reveals, “People with lactose intolerance should avoid milk, cream, butter, soft cheeses, and processed foods containing hidden lactose. Instead, they can consume lactose-free dairy products, plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk, and take lactase enzyme supplements. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt with live cultures can also support gut health.”
A system of checks and balances must be put in place by building small but effective actions over time such as avoiding processed foods and prescription medications. Vigilance is key in battling the condition by checking nutrition labels and ingredient lists on food before buying them to avoid any negative after-effects. Chavan further adds, “Lifestyle changes include keeping a food diary, eating small portions of dairy if tolerated, staying hydrated, incorporating calcium-rich alternatives, and managing stress through techniques like yoga. Consulting a dietician can ensure proper nutrient intake.” At the end of the day, it’s important to understand and focus on your individual needs in order to strike an optimal balance.
Debunking common myths
Rather than placing our faith in fickle assumptions and clichés, it’s always advised to let the professionals have the final word in dealing with such health-related concerns. “A common myth is that lactose intolerance means completely avoiding all dairy; however, many people can tolerate small amounts of lactose or certain dairy products like hard cheeses and yogurt. Another misconception is that it is the same as a milk allergy, but lactose intolerance is an enzyme deficiency, not an immune reaction. It’s also wrongly believed to only affect adults; lactose intolerance can develop at any age. Lastly, some think it’s a rare condition, but it’s quite common globally,” shares Dr Shaikh.
At the end of the day, it’s critical to understand that lactose intolerance impacts different people in disparate ways. Rather than trying to fit the condition in a mould, it’s better to recognize and appreciate our personal needs in order to lead a steady life.
