Common Signs of Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a condition marked by one’s inability to properly digest the lactose found in milk. The condition is often confused with a milk allergy (or casein allergy). The two conditions often appear quite similar. Likewise, they’re both set off when someone consumes dairy products. But lactose intolerance is a digestive issue while milk allergies are triggered by the immune system, and may cause an anaphylactic response. Often, underlying signs of lactose intolerance are discovered by looking for the following signs: 1. Stomach pain Stomach pain is one of the most striking and easily noticed signs of lactose intolerance. It’s primarily caused by lactose passing through the digestive system without being properly broken down. Our digestive system is where everything we eat is supposed to be deconstructed into the most basic nutritional components. People suffering from lactose intolerance can’t break down lactose on their own. They’ll typically feel pain as their stomach ramps up its stomach acid and lactose makes its way into systems, which aren’t able to handle undigested food. The pain might be further provoked by gas from other parts of the body making its way into the stomach. 2. Diarrhea or loose stools Digestive problems can often result in fluid retention within the colon.