If you are a food truck fan, then you are likely no stranger to our awesome local food truck parks where you can indulge in everything from Latin American food, Philly cheese steaks, to loaded fries, topping it all off with a couple of scoops of your favorite cold dairy treat—all within a matter steps. Your stomach, however, might wish you’d skip all that cheese and gelato you love so much. If your stomach has begun to rumble after being filled with all manner of dairy deliciousness, you might be experiencing the symptoms of lactose intolerance.
Can you become lactose intolerant later in life?
If you have noticed your stomach feeling unsettled or bloated after having your morning glass of milk or a serving of gelato, you might be experiencing the effects of lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is a form of digestive distress that occurs after consuming dairy products. Interestingly, this intolerance can develop at any stage of life, leaving many wondering: Can you become lactose intolerant later in life?
Understanding Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance stems from a deficiency in the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down the sugar lactose found in milk. Unlike a severe milk allergy, which triggers immediate and potentially life-threatening reactions, lactose intolerance primarily manifests as discomfort in the digestive tract. Symptoms usually emerge within two hours of consuming lactose-rich foods.
Signs of Lactose Intolerance
- Diarrhea
- Nausea, and sometimes, vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Gas
Genetics and Ethnicity
While lactose intolerance can occur at any age, genetics play a significant role. If both parents carry the gene variant for lactose intolerance, their child is more likely to inherit it. Furthermore, certain ethnic groups, including those of Asian, African, Mexican, and Native American descent, are more predisposed to lactose intolerance. Those least often affected are Americans of Northern European heritage.
Types of Lactose Intolerance
Primary lactose intolerance is the most common type, occurring when individuals are born with limited lactase production or when production naturally decreases with age. In rare cases, infants may be born with congenital lactose intolerance, necessitating lifelong management. Secondary lactose intolerance can develop due to gastrointestinal conditions or medical treatments, but it may be reversible if the underlying cause is addressed.
Potential Causes of Secondary Lactose Intolerance:
- Celiac Disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Radiation therapy
- Small bowel resection (removal of a damaged section)
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Enterocolitis (inflammation of both bowels)
- Bacterial overgrowth
- Crohn’s disease
- Infection of the intestine (most often in children)
Does Age Impact Lactose Production?
Babies are born with high levels of lactase to facilitate milk digestion. However, as they age and other foods are introduced into their diets, lactase production naturally declines. Symptoms of lactose intolerance may first appear in childhood but commonly arise between the ages of 20 to 40 as lactase levels diminish.
Treatment and Management
While there is no cure for lactose intolerance, it can be managed effectively. Dietary adjustments, such as reducing dairy consumption or using lactase enzyme supplements, can alleviate symptoms. Reading food labels carefully is essential, as lactose is often added to various processed foods. Understanding the nuances of lactose intolerance empowers individuals to make informed choices regarding their health and nutrition.
Consulting healthcare providers for proper testing and diagnosis is crucial to differentiate lactose intolerance from other gastrointestinal issues that share the same symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Stop by AFC Urgent Care Fountain City today and let us help you.
