Lactose intolerance lacks what enzyme?

Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of lactase, which can lead to diarrhea when consuming dairy products. Thus, patients with this condition should avoid consuming milk powder, cow's milk, goat's milk, etc. If they must consume dairy, they should choose products that have been specially processed. Patients with lactose intolerance can drink rice soup, thin porridge, millet congee, and similar foods. It is also important for these patients to maintain dietary hygiene, avoid overeating, and avoid binge eating. Eating small, frequent meals to ensure a steady supply of nutrients is recommended.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What should I do if the baby is lactose intolerant?

If the baby is lactose intolerant and does not have frequent bowel movements and it does not affect their growth and development, then no special treatment is needed. If there is frequent diarrhea and slow weight gain, then an adjustment in diet is necessary. If there is significant acute diarrhea accompanied by dehydration, we should initially rehydrate the infant either intravenously or orally to correct the dehydration. At the same time, you can start with some lactose-free formula and, after the diarrhea stops, gradually increase the amount of breast milk or other formulas based on the child's condition. Regardless of whatever food substitute is used, the overall principle is to not decrease the nutritional needs of the child. As solid foods are introduced and breast milk or cow's milk is decreased, diarrhea will gradually cease. If diarrhea does not subside, oral lactase enzyme preparations can also be provided to supplement lactase enzyme therapy.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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How many times a day does lactose intolerance cause diarrhea?

Patients with lactose intolerance can have multiple bowel movements per day after consuming milk; a mild case can result in 3-4 bowel movements, while severe cases might lead to dozens, potentially causing dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. For lactose-intolerant patients who need to consume milk, it must be specially treated beforehand. Additionally, if diarrhea is caused by poor digestion in the gastrointestinal tract, certain medications that adjust the gut microbiota can be used to aid digestion, such as Bifidobacterium triple viable bacteria and Bacillus cereus, etc. If the diarrhea is caused by allergies, allergen testing should be conducted. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Wu Ben Rong
Pediatrics
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Does lactose intolerance cause constipation?

If a child has lactose intolerance, they usually do not experience constipation. Lactose intolerance typically refers to a deficiency of lactase in the small intestine mucosa of newborns, which leads to the impaired digestion and absorption of lactose in milk and causes related symptoms. The clinical symptoms mainly include diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain, often accompanied by increased bowel sounds and spasmodic diarrhea. In severe cases, dehydration, vomiting, or acidosis may occur. The stools are usually watery or frothy, acidic, and contain lactose. The child's weight usually does not increase, and symptoms such as malnutrition, anemia, and emaciation may occur. Constipation refers to reduced frequency of bowel movements, difficulty in defecating, or hard stools; lactose intolerance usually does not lead to such symptoms.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What should I do if I vomit due to lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance can lead to vomiting, which can be managed based on the condition by symptomatic treatment. For example, Metoclopramide can be used orally or through muscle injection to alleviate vomiting. If necessary, chlorpromazine injections can also be used for treatment. The choice of specific medications and their administration must adhere to medical advice. In addition to addressing the symptoms, it is essential to treat the primary disease causing lactose intolerance. For instance, if it is caused by ulcerative colitis, then treatment should focus on this condition. In the case of primary lactose intolerance, a lifelong avoidance of lactose-containing foods is necessary. (Medication use should be under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Huang Kun Mei
Pediatrics
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Will baby lactose intolerance get better on its own?

Whether lactose intolerance in babies will resolve on its own depends on the severity of the symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, mothers should pay attention to a balanced diet, which may gradually lead to recovery. However, if the symptoms are more pronounced, it is necessary to visit the hospital promptly for diagnosis. If diagnosed with lactose intolerance, medication, such as lactase, may be required, and the medication should be administered according to the specific conditions of the child. For babies under six months who are exclusively breastfed, it is crucial for mothers to ensure a balanced nutrition. If the baby is over six months old, they should be fed foods that are easy to digest.