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Lactose Intolerance |
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Lactose intolerance occurs in people, who have a low level of enzyme, which could be a result of aging, genetics, or disease affecting the enzyme-producing cells of the small intestine. Lactose intolerance affects about 70% of African Americans, 90% of Asians, and 10% of Hispanics and Americans. LI exists in 3 types: primary or generic, secondary or acquired, and congenital. In primary lactose intolerance, which is common in adults, the gastrointestinal cells do not produce sufficient levels of lactose. Secondary LI is a result of another disease process that affects gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Congenital LI is very rare and may occur at birth. Lactose enters the colon intact and makes GI symptoms such as cramping, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, gassiness. Lactose enters in the GI tract as a carbohydrate contained in most dairy products and produces up about 10%of the total carbohydrate in the average American diet. Even dairy products contain the most lactose, there are some exceptions. For example, yogurt contains the same amount of lactose as milk, but most types also contain lactase to break it down and are better tolerated than milk. Natural cheeses contain only small amounts of lactose, but processed cheese food slices contain a little more because of added milk solids. Because manufacturers frequently use the dairy foods, it’s important to read ingredient labels. Lactose itself is sometimes used as a filler in such medications as Contact, Premarin and Maalox. People with lactose intolerance should avoid lactose, using special products, that digest lactose, or buying products in which lactose is predigested. The special products such as Lact-Aid come in drop or pill from and may be taken before starting eating lactose-containing food or may be added to food. Most individuals with LI may tolerate 4 ounces of milk, one of the meals containing the most lactose at one time. Some people with lactose intolerance feel severe symptoms even with small amounts of milk as an ingredient, contained in another food. To help to increase tolerance of milk, people with LI should include it as part of a meal with other foods. Scientists also suggest that individuals with lactose intolerance may increase their tolerance to lactose-contained foods by including small amount daily, and gradually increasing the amount over time.
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| Category |
Disease Conditions > L
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| Related Searches |
lactose intolerance symptoms, lactose intolerance management |
| Date Submitted |
26-Sep-2005
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