Topic 10 - Lactose intolerance

What is lactose intolerance?

The inability to fully digest sugar (lactose) in dairy products.

how does lactose intolerance affect the body

How does the body normally digest lactose

body breaks down lactose into its simpler components which can then be absorbed into the body

How does lactose intolerance affect the body

1. the body does not produce enough lactase 2. lactose isn't digested and absorbed into the small intestine as it should be 3. Lactose continues along the digestive tract to the large intestine. 4. Once in the large intestine, bacteria partially breakdowns the lactose into acids and gases by a process known as fermentation. 5. This causes excessive wind, bloating and associated pain 6. Any undigested lactose continues the intestinal tract and attracts water molecules

Symptoms

- abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, Diarrhoea

Dietry changes (how much dairy can be eaten)

some dairy products contain very little amounts of dairy or none at all which can be safetly consumed by people with lactose intolerance

Foods to avoid

- foods with low fat or no fat (breaks down slower so will not cause significantly adverse affects, foods with high amount of dairy

Foods that are safe to eat

- hard and matured cheese, yoghurt, fresh cheese, Lactose free milks, Soy substitues