Title: Can you become lactose intolerant all of the sudden? | Zocdoc Answers
Headings: "Can you become lactose intolerant all of the sudden?"
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"Can you become lactose intolerant all of the sudden?"
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Content: Could I have become lactose intolerant all of the sudden? Answer
Theoretically, you can become lactose intolerant at any point. While it is true that most people show their intolerance to lactose early in life, people can get it in their teenage years, or even in adulthood. Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase in the inner lining of the GI wall. See a doctor who can help
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Since the GI track cannot absorb lactose whole (it must be broken down), it stays in the gut. This causes water to move into the gut which results in diarrhea and abdominal pain. Most people with lactose intolerance only have their symptoms when they consume lactose containing foods. You should track what you eat every day so you can pinpoint everything that causes your upset stomach. This way you can tell if there are other products other than dairy that cause your symptoms. If you are not having diarrhea after eating milk, your lactose intolerance is probably not very severe.