Lactose Intolerance

Alternate Names : Lactase Deficiency

What are the treatments for the condition?

Infants and young children with lactose intolerance should not eat or drink foods containing lactose. This includes milk and milk products. Special infant formulas are available for babies with congenital lactose intolerance. Older children and adults may be able to eat or drink limited amounts of lactose-containing foods.

The enzyme lactase is available in tablet or capsule form. Persons with lactose intolerance can sometimes tolerate milk products if they take a lactase tablet first. Liquid lactase may also be added to milk to lower the lactose content before the person drinks it. Dietary counseling can be helpful to an individual with lactose intolerance. The dietary plan should include foods high in calcium and vitamin D.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Lactase supplements have no significant side effects.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If the ability to digest lactose has been permanently lost, treatment might be lifelong.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.