Dairy Products | Dr. Sam

What if you can't tolerate dairy products?

You know if you are lactose intolerant because it can be very uncomfortable. Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest milk, or more specifically lactose, the main sugar in milk.

It's not dangerous, but for people who experience the cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea that lactose intolerance causes, the only solution seems to be to stop drinking milk and eating dairy products.

The symptoms usually start a half hour to two hours after drinking or eating foods with lactose.

The problem

The problem is that milk, cheese and other dairy products are a significant source of calcium, which is critical for the growth and repair of bones throughout life. A shortage of calcium for adults may lead to osteoporosis. So lactose intolerant children and adults need to continue to get calcium through supplements and other calcium-rich foods.

Who has it?

About 30 million Americans are lactose intolerant. The condition affects as many as 75 percent of African Americans and American Indians, and 90 percent of Asian Americans.

How is it treated?

Symptoms can be controlled with diet. Small children should avoid foods with lactose, but older children and adults often can learn to manage - through trial and error - to eat small amounts of ice cream, milk, and cheese.

Lactase enzymes are available without a prescription. These enzymes - available in either tablet or liquid form - help people digest foods with lactose, and are taken with the first bite of dairy foods.

Lactose-reduced milk and other products are available at most supermarkets. The milk contains all of the nutrients found in regular milk and remains fresh for about the same length of time, or longer if it is super-pasteurized.

The recommendation

The Institute of Medicine recommendations calcium intake for children that ranges from 210 mg a day for infants and up to 1,300 mg for teens and preteens. At least 1,000 mg is recommended for adults. As we age, or have special needs - such as pregnancy - the needs increase.