Lactose Intolerance: A Common Malady in the Population

Course overview

Lactose intolerance is a frequently-experienced syndrome of gastrointestinal symptoms arising from the inability to digest lactose-containing foods. It occurs as a result of lactase deficiency, which affects two-thirds of the worlds population. Symptoms of lactose intolerance can often be confused with other GI conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and gluten intolerance. Treatments for these conditions are very different than those for lactose intolerance, making proper identification essential to management. Education about lactose intolerance and its management is especially important in growing children who may start to avoid dairy products that are essential to proper bone development. With appropriate education, patients with lactose intolerance can continue to enjoy cows milk products and receive adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D to maintain a healthy bone mineral density.