Title: Lactose intolerant | definition of Lactose intolerant by Medical dictionary
Headings: lactose intolerance
lactose intolerance
Lactose Intolerance
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intolerance
lac·tose in·tol·er·ance
lactose intolerance
lactose intolerance
a·dult lac·tase de·fi·cien·cy
lactose intolerance
lac·tose in·tol·er·ance
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Content: When dairy products are ingested, the lactose reaches the digestive system and is broken down by lactase into the simpler sugars glucose and galactose. The liver changes the galactose into glucose, which then enters the bloodstream and raises the blood glucose level. Lactose intolerance occurs when, due to a deficiency of lactase, lactose is not completely broken down and the glucose level does not rise. While not usually dangerous, lactose intolerance can cause severe discomfort. From 30 to 50 million Americans suffer from the symptoms of lactose intolerance, but not everyone who is deficient in lactase experiences symptoms. Experts believe that 75% of the adult population worldwide does not produce enough lactase and is at risk for some or all of the symptoms of lactose intolerance. Causes and symptoms
Lactose intolerance can be caused by some diseases of the digestive system and by injuries to the small intestine that result in a decreased production of lactase. While rare, some children are also born unable to produce the enzyme. For many, however, lactase deficiency develops naturally because, after about two years of age, the body produces less lactase. Symptoms include nausea, cramps, diarrhea, bloating and gas.