Group Presentation Lactose Intolerance

Definition of Lactose Intolerance Being lactose intolerant means that your body cannot digest foods with lactose in them. Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Lactase is a protein, an enzyme that is produced in the small intestine - it breaks down lactose. Individuals with lactose intolerance do not produce enough lactase.

Signs/Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance Gas In lactose intolerant adults, the lactose is fermented and metabolized by bacteria in the colon to produce excess gas. Diarrhea Depending on how much lactase certain foods produce and the extent of their consumption of milk or other dairy foods, diarrhea can be the result. This is your body’s way of dealing with the fact that it isn’t producing enough lactase which breaks down the lactose which is the sugar that is found in dairy products. Stomachache This is the result of a lactose intolerant person not producing enough lactase in the small intestines. The person’s body cannot break down the lactose that is found in dairy products and consistent stomachaches could be a sign that you may be lactose intolerant.