Lactose intolerance is a condition wherein your body can’t fully digest lactose, which is a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. This happens because there’s a deficiency in lactase in your body. Lactase is the enzyme that helps in breaking down lactose into simpler sugars which can be easily absorbed by the body. There are a lot of people who suffer from lactose intolerance and hence, they resort to dairy alternatives.

However, there are people who suffer from the condition and have not identified it yet. This is because they think that it is just a digestive issue and would normalise naturally, but that is not the case. While the condition is not life-threatening, it can affect an individual’s quality of life significantly. Here, take a look at some of the common signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance that you should know.

One of the hallmark signs of lactose intolerance includes gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, gas, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea that happens after consuming foods that contain lactose or beverages. These symptoms happen due to undigested lactose that ferments in the colon, which eventually leads to an overgrowth of bacteria, causing gas and other problems.

Some people with lactose intolerance may have nausea and vomiting after consuming dairy products. These symptoms can vary depending on the person’s level of lactase deficiency and the amount of lactose consumed. Nausea is often accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Lactose intolerance can lead to bloating and discomfort in the abdomen, leading to a feeling of fullness and tightness. This bloating happens as a result of the accumulation of gas in the digestive tract, triggered by the fermentation of undigested lactose in the colon.

Diarrhoea is a common symptom of lactose intolerance and usually takes place within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose. The unabsorbed lactose draws excess water into the colon, thereby, causing loose and watery stools. Diarrhoea caused due to lactose intolerance can lead to dehydration if not managed well.

Abdominal pain and cramping are common symptoms in people with lactose intolerance. The discomfort usually happens in the lower abdomen and can range from mild to severe. These symptoms happen due to increased gas production and intestinal contractions.

Excessive gas production, known as flatulence, is also a common symptom of lactose intolerance. The fermentation of lactose by bacteria in the colon leads to the release of gases, which are expelled through flatulence. This can also result in embarrassing and uncomfortable situations.

Prolonged untreated lactose intolerance can lead to malnutrition and fatigue due to poor nutrient absorption. The inability to digest lactose can result in a reduced intake of dairy products, which are important sources of calcium, vitamin D and other essential nutrients. Over time, this can lead to nutritional deficiencies and fatigue, thereby, affecting overall health and well-being.