Lactose Intolerance Directory
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, the sugar primarily found in milk and dairy products such as ice cream and cheese. It is caused by a shortage in the body of lactase, an enzyme produced by the small intestine that is needed to digest lactose. Symptoms include nausea, cramps, painful gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Lactose intolerance is diagnosed based on relief of symptoms when avoiding dairy products. Other tests include a hydrogen breath test, a blood glucose test, and a stool acidity test. Lactose intolerance is primarily treated by eating lactose-containing foods that don't produce symptoms. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about lactose intolerance, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and much more.
Medical Reference
What People With Lactose Intolerance Need to Know About Osteoporosis
Since dairy products are a major source of calcium, you might assume that people with lactose intolerance who avoid dairy products could be at increased risk for osteoporosis. However, research exploring the role of lactose intolerance in calcium intake and bone health has produced conflicting results.
Hydrogen Breath Test for Diagnosing Lactose Intolerance
WebMD explains how lactose intolerance can be detected through a hydrogen breath test.
Abdominal Pain: What You Should Know
What's causing your stomach ache? WebMD looks at some of the causes of abdominal pain.
Lactose Intolerance - Cause, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk and dairy products. Learn more about this common condition.
Features
Tolerate Lactose Intolerance
She doesn't know for sure, but Jacqueline Janotta thinks she may have been born lactose intolerant. Never fond of milk as a child, she rarely encountered lactose, the sugar found in milk and other dairy products.
Lactose-Free Entree and Snack Recipes
You can still enjoy tasty dishes, even if you don’t digest lactose well. For a delicious change of pace, try these lactose-free entree and snack recipes.
Lactose Intolerance: Protect Against Osteoporosis
Lactose intolerance can make it difficult to get enough calcium and vitamin D to maintain healthy bones. Get tips on protecting your bones if you are lactose intolerant.
Lactose-Free Milk and Nondairy Beverages
If you're lactose intolerant, you can still enjoy light coffee and creamy desserts with nondairy and lactose-free options instead of milk.
Video
Cooking for Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a common disorder that usually affects adults. It’s important to know which foods to avoid and what to include when cooking for lactose intolerance.
Kids and Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance in children typically develops in late adolescence, although onset can be earlier. It’s rarely life threatening but can cause discomfort and affect quality of life.
Eating for Lactose Intolerance
Groceries for Lactose Intolerance
Slideshows & Images
Worst Foods for Digestion
Learn which foods can trigger diarrhea and other digestive problems.
Super Steps to Boost Digestive Health
Treat your body right with these simple tips for the best digestive health. See how to deal with diarrhea, gas, reflux, and more.
Lactose Intolerance – How to Get Calcium and Vitamin D
See how to eat right when dairy gives you stomach problems. Learn how to get calcium and vitamin D from lactose-free milk, calcium-rich foods, and the sun.
Lactose Intolerance -- 14 Ways to Still Love Dairy
See how certain cheeses, lactose-free milk, probiotics, and more can help keep dairy in your diet.