Lactose intolerance: One in five Brits report issues with dairyGETTY

Lactose intolerance: One in five Brits report issues with dairy

Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually develop within a few hours of consuming food or drink that contains lactose.

They include flatulence, diarrhoea, bloating, stomach cramps, stomach rumbling and feeling sick.

Research has revealed almost had of young people aged 16 to 24 said they had an ‘adverse’ reaction to milk.

Figures from the Food Standards Agency show more than a fifth of the population claim to be intolerant or allergic to cows’ milk.

Lactose intolerance: The condition occurs when the body does not produce enough lactaseGETTY

Lactose intolerance: The condition occurs when the body does not produce enough lactase

But only five per cent of Brits are actually diagnosed as lactose intolerant, according to the British Nutrition Foundation.

Dr Anthony Hobson, Clinical Director at the Functional Gut Clinic said: “In order to be able to digest lactose, our bodies need to produce an enzyme called lactase in the small bowel.

“This cuts the lactose into smaller sugars called glucose and galactose, which can then be easily digested.

“Lactose intolerance is caused when the body does not produce enough lactase.

“The two most common things for people to cut out of their diet when they have gut symptoms are gluten and dairy.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

 
Top