Everyday we hear people say, “Oh, I cannot drink milk, [because] I’m lactose intolerant.” But what exactly does that really mean? How would you know that you were lactose intolerant?
Being lactose intolerant does not mean that you just can not have milk. It actually means that your body, in particular your digestive system, does not have enough enzymes to break down lactose. The enzyme, lactase, is normally broken down and used by the muscle and other body tissues. Since, the body refuses to use it, once it is in your system, it combines with other wastes in the colon. Then, what goes in, must come out; fast.
You will know that you have an inability to digest lactose when you begin to show or experience symptoms. Within 15-30 minutes of consuming a product of dairy, that contains lactose, you start suffering great abdominal or stomach pains. These pains are similar to indigestion, but feel more like your stomach tearing open. It’s not, you’re just going through the first sign. Quickly you will begin to experience bloating, gas, and nausea. Ultimately, after ingesting dairy, you will be running to the bathroom before the last symptom, diarrhea is unleashed.
Another way to know, for sure, that you are lactose intolerant is by going to your physician and requesting a lactose tolerance test. There are several different tests that include ingesting a tremendous amount of lactose. Which is then followed up, within hours, by tests. Doctor’s can let you know which test is appropriate for you.
Depending on the severity of the intolerance, and how much dairy was ingested, depends on how long before you recover from the pain and other symptoms. Although it is not a seriously deadly disease, it is very uncomfortable. It is important to decrease the intake of any food product, dairy or otherwise, that contains the indigestible substance.