Lactose intolerance develops when the body has difficulty digesting whole and skim milk and other dairy products. Lactose is a milk sugar and like most sugars, enzymes in the intestinal tract break it down so it can be absorbed as an energy source. The enzyme that breaks down lactose is called lactase. When the intestine does not contain lactase, then lactose intolerance can occur.

Primary lactose intolerance - Normally, the body produces large amounts of lactase at birth and in early childhood, when milk is the primary source of nutrition. However, like all mammals, most people experience a decrease in lactase production later. This gradual decline causes many adults to experience symptoms of lactose intolerance. Secondary lactose intolerance - This form of lactose intolerance occurs when your Small Intestine decreases lactase production after an illness, operation or injury to the Small Intestine Congenital lactose intolerance

The cells that line the Small Intestine produce an enzyme called lactase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down lactose into two simple sugars — glucose and galactose — that can be absorbed into your bloodstream. A lack of lactase prevents lactose from being broken down, causing the symptoms of lactose intolerance. In most cases lactase deficiency develops naturally over time when after about the age of 2 years, the body begins to produce less lactase. Interestingly, most people do not experience symptoms until they reach an older age.

Nausea, Cramps, Bloating gas, Diarrhoea, which may begin from after half an hour to 2 hours after eating or drinking foods containing lactose.

Persons who suffer from lactase deficiency and do not avoid lactose may suffer from weight loss and malnutrition.The severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of lactose each individual can tolerate.

Lactose Tolerance Test - A test dose of lactose is ingested and Blood sugar test is done. If lactase is present to break down the lactose load, then the Blood sugar level rises. If no lactase is present, the Blood sugar level does not change. Hydrogen Breath Test - When lactose is broken down by the colon's bacteria, hydrogen is released, which then passes out through the Lungs. The amount of hydrogen released after a lactose meal can indicate a problem. Stool Acidity Test - When lactose breaks down to lactic and other acids in the colon; the resulting acidity can be detected by a simple measurement of stool acidity.

Presently there is no cure for Lactose Intolerance and there are only two ways to cope with lactose intolerance.

Avoiding milk and dairy products in the diet. The second option is to replace the lactase that your Digestive system is not producing. This way you may be able to enjoy dairy products without sufferance. Lactase drops or tablets are also available which can be added in milk.

Symptoms usually go away when milk products are eliminated from the diet.

Weight loss and malnutrition are complications