Lactose Intolerance in Infants - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Lactose intolerance is an inability to digest lactose, or milk sugar, found in dairy products. It is most common in babies and young children.
Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose. This causes symptoms that include diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence, and gas.
This article explains what causes it, how to diagnose it, and how to treat it.
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body does not produce enough lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose. In infants, the small intestine produces little lactase until age 2 years. If the infant has been breastfed, he or she will likely develop lactose intolerance.
What Is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance affects approximately 30% of adults worldwide. This condition is caused by a lack of lactase production, which results in symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, gas, nausea, vomiting, and flatulence.
Why Do Babies Have Lactose Intolerance Issues?
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body does not produce enough lactase enzyme to break down lactose into glucose and galactose. In infants, this condition usually resolves itself within one year of age. However, some people with lactose intolerance continue to suffer from symptoms throughout adulthood.
How Can You Tell If Your Baby Has Lactose Intolerance Problems?
Babies who are breastfed by mothers who do not have lactose intolerance will develop normal levels of lactase activity in their intestines. This means that they should be able to digest lactose normally. If your baby has been fed formula, however, he or she may still have lactose intolerance.
Treating Lactose Intolerance with Probiotics
There are several different types of probiotic supplements available today. They are designed to help support healthy digestion and immune function. These supplements contain live bacteria that are beneficial to the body.