Lactose intolerance is a common condition affecting approximately 30–50 million Americans. It occurs when the body struggles to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. While not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and impact daily life. But what if probiotics could help make treatment for lactose intolerance easier? Here, we will explore lactose intolerance, how probiotics may support its treatment, and give you practical tips for incorporating them into your ... [Read More]
Lactose Intolerance
How Gastroenterologists Treat Bloating
If you are bloated, it means you are feeling a sensation of fullness or tightness in the abdomen. This may be accompanied by pain, gas, and belching. If you try to palpate your stomach, it may feel hard. In some cases, bloating can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and trouble swallowing, which indicates a gastrointestinal disorder, and is likely not just a one-off incident. To receive specialized care, especially if you are frequently bloated, make an appointment with a ... [Read More]
Treatments for Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a natural sugar found in dairy products. In order for the intestines and the body to absorb it properly, your small intestine produces lactase – which is an enzyme responsible for breaking down the sugar. If the small intestine is unable to produce lactase, the lactose is left undigested as it transfers to the large intestine. This creates the uncomfortable symptoms associated with lactose intolerance. Fortunately, treatments for lactose intolerance are usually enough to control ... [Read More]
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a natural sugar that is common in dairy products. Lactose intolerance is the inability to breakdown lactose. The condition is due to the body’s inability to create a sufficient amount of lactase, an enzyme that is supplied by the small intestine. Lactase’ job is to break down lactose. When the small intestine doesn’t make enough lactase, lactose goes undigested as it moves into the large intestine. Interaction between undigested lactose and bacteria in the large intestine cause ... [Read More]
