Alternative Source of Calcium for Lactose Intolerance
By: Micheal BergerTotal Views: 334, Word Count: 628,
Alternative source of calcium for lactose intolerance proves beneficial to those individuals who cannot digest the milk sugar lactose. For many people, consumption of milk products leads to abdominal discomfort and vomiting. As an alternative, calcium source for lactose intolerance can be consumed.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is usually caused due to the inability to digest lactose. It is a component that is commonly found in milk and milk products. People who suffer from its intolerance face a deficiency of the enzyme lactase which is produced by the small intestine. This problem is not severe and can be managed by adopting alternative source of calcium for lactose intolerance.
There is a tendency between many people who confuse lactose intolerance with cow milk allergy. However, it is not so. Usually, milk allergy is caused due to immunity to one or more milk proteins whereas lactose intolerance takes place in adulthood.
What Causes Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is caused to a person who develops lactase deficiency. It
develops over time and in many cases, begins after the age 2, when human body begins to generate less lactase. The symptoms become more prominent when people reach their adolescence or adulthood.
Research conducted relates a genetic link to lactase deficiency. Scientists assume that people inherit a gene that possesses chances to develop lactase deficiency in humans. In some people, lactase deficiency occurs from an injury in the small intestine due to severe diarrhea or diseases like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease or due to excess application of chemotherapy. However, these aspects need a scientific basis and the support of few more tests to confirm the occurrences of lactose intolerance in people.
What are the Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance?
- Bloating in abdomen
- Diarrhea
- Gastric trouble
- Nausea
- Uncomfortable feeling as soon as milk and milk products are consumed
- Severe abdominal pain
How to Determine your Level of Lactose Intolerance?
- No intake of any dairy products for a couple of days proves to be a good option
- Reduce the intake of milk which you can restrict to small doses till you determine the symptoms.
How to Minimize Discomfort from Lactose Intolerance?
To minimize the discomfort due to lactose intolerance, it is advised not to take the dairy products alone. This means inculcate the habit of taking a biscuit or fruits along with ice cream. Similarly, you can add chocolate or cocoa powder in milk before consuming it.
Alternative Source of Calcium for Lactose Intolerance
- Alternative products for milk – Intake of low level of lactose containing products like buttermilk, fermented yogurt, goat milk or hard cheese, etc.
- Fish – Being a rich source of calcium, you can include fish in your diet. For example, salmon and sardines that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids can be consumed to fulfill your calcium requirement.
- Green vegetables – Eating plenty of seasonal green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli proves to be a good source of calcium. These also contribute to good development of bones.
About the Author
Dr Micheal Berger is a General Physician practicing in Seattle for 9 years. He likes to share medical and good health information for the benefit of mankind through his articles.
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