Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest milk sugar. Symptoms, which often include watery stool, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, are experienced after eating milk products. The symptoms of IBS are nearly identical to those of lactose intolerance and the two syndromes can coexist. In one study, nearly 25% of patients with a diagnosis of IBS had evidence of lactose malabsorption by hydrogen breath tests (a measurement of hydrogen gas in the breath after ingestion of lactose).
Did you know...
Non-Dairy Sources can Contain Lactose
Some non-dairy foods may include ingredients that contain lactose. The ingredient list on food packages informs you of lactose or those ingredients in the food that contain lactose. Dairy products are the most common sources of lactose, although some non-dairy processed or baked foods contain smaller amounts.
Individuals who experience symptoms of lactose intolerance from small amounts of lactose-containing foods should look for words such as "whey," "lactose," "nonfat milk solids," "buttermilk," "malted milk," "margarine," and "sweet" or "sour cream." Some breads, dry cereals, cookies, instant soups, breakfast drinks, and milk chocolate contain small amounts of lactose.
Also, lactose is widely used as a filler or diluent (increases bulk) in tablets and capsules. Ask a pharmacist if medications you take contain lactose. [Source: The American Dietetic Association]
In another study, hydrogen breath tests were performed on patients who had been diagnosed with IBS but who had no apparent symptoms related to the ingestion of milk. Lactose malabsorption was diagnosed in 68% of these patients. Symptoms improved after a lactose-restricted diet was introduced.
All patients with a diagnosis of IBS should have hydrogen breath testing to rule out lactose malabsorption. Patients with IBS whose hydrogen breath tests prove negative will not be helped by a lactose free diet.
Treatment of lactose intolerance involves the complete elimination of all lactose-containing products from the diet. Only patients with positive hydrogen breath tests should eliminate lactose from the diet.
Source
- Boan JF (Formerly Knowles). Dietary Factors in Gastrointestinal Diseases. IFFGD Fact Sheet No. 148; 1998.
For more information visit:
- The Learning Center topics on food intolerance/malabsorption.