Lactose Intolerance – Symptoms, Causes, Foods to Avoid & Treatment

Understand what lactose intolerance is, its common symptoms, causes, diagnosis methods, and how to manage it with dietary tips and treatment options.
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3 min
20-May-2025
A scoop of ice cream or a glass of milk may be harmless to most—but if you often feel bloated, gassy, or uncomfortable after dairy, you might be dealing with lactose intolerance. It’s one of the most common yet often misunderstood digestive conditions, affecting millions worldwide, including infants.

Understanding what lactose is, how your body reacts to it, and what signs to look out for can help you manage symptoms, eat smarter, and prevent complications.

Pro tip: Testing, dietary consults, and even outpatient treatments for lactose intolerance can be covered under certain health insurance plans. Explore plans starting at Rs. 9.3/day* for Rs. 10 lakh cover

Disclaimer: *T&C Apply. #Insurance premium indicated is for healthy male aged 18 years and is exclusive of tax.

What is lactose intolerance and how does it occur

Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. To digest it, your small intestine produces an enzyme called lactase. When your body doesn’t make enough lactase, lactose stays undigested in your gut—leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, or diarrhea.

This condition is called lactose intolerance, not to be confused with a milk allergy. While a milk allergy involves the immune system, lactose intolerance is a digestive issue.

Types of lactose intolerance:

  • Primary: Most common—develops with age as lactase production drops.
  • Secondary: Caused by illness or injury to the small intestine (e.g., after infections or surgery).
  • Congenital or developmental: Rare, but can affect newborns (called lactose intolerance in newborns).

Common symptoms of lactose intolerance

Symptoms can show up within 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating dairy. Here’s what to look for:

  • Bloating or swelling in the stomach
  • Stomach cramps or pain
  • Excessive gas or flatulence
  • Diarrhea or loose stools
  • Nausea (sometimes with vomiting)
  • Gurgling sounds in the stomach
These symptoms may vary in intensity depending on how much lactose-containing food you’ve consumed and your body’s tolerance level.

Even mild symptoms over time can affect gut health. Early testing for lactose intolerance can help you plan your diet and avoid nutrient loss.

Foods to avoid if you have lactose intolerance

Knowing the foods that contain lactose is key to managing your symptoms. Here’s what to avoid or limit:

High-lactose foods:

  • Milk (cow, buffalo, goat)
  • Ice cream and milkshakes
  • Soft cheeses like cream cheese, paneer, ricotta
  • Yogurt (unless labeled lactose-free)
  • Baked goods made with milk
  • Processed foods with milk solids, whey, or casein

Hidden sources:

  • Protein powders
  • Instant soups or sauces
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Chocolates and creamy desserts
  • Medications with lactose fillers
Insurance plans with diet consult benefits can help you build a personalized dairy-free diet. Get covered today with OPD and dietician support included.

How is lactose intolerance diagnosed

Diagnosing lactose intolerance starts with a clinical evaluation and is often confirmed through specific tests. Here's how doctors approach it:

Testing for Lactose Intolerance:

  • Lactose Tolerance Test: Measures how your body processes lactose via blood glucose levels.
  • Hydrogen Breath Test: Most common—detects hydrogen gas after consuming lactose (a by-product of poor digestion).
  • Stool Acidity Test: Used mainly in infants and toddlers to detect lactose malabsorption.
  • Elimination Diet: Removing lactose-rich foods to see if symptoms improve.
Worried about cost? Many health insurance plans cover outpatient diagnostics including breath and tolerance tests. Compare affordable coverage options.

Best dietary tips and treatment options for lactose intolerance

There’s no permanent cure, but lactose intolerance treatment focuses on managing symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes.

Dietary tips:

  • Switch to lactose-free milk or plant-based alternatives (like almond, soy, oat milk)
  • Choose aged cheeses (like cheddar or parmesan) that have less lactose
  • Read food labels carefully—look for “lactose-free” or “dairy-free” tags
  • Include calcium-rich non-dairy foods like spinach, almonds, sesame, and fortified juices
  • Take lactase enzyme tablets before meals, as advised by your doctor

Medical support:

  • Digestive enzyme supplements
  • Probiotic support
  • Monitoring vitamin D and calcium levels
  • Regular follow-ups with a gastroenterologist or dietician
Your long-term gut health matters. Opt for health insurance that covers dietary counselling, enzyme prescriptions, and specialist consults. Compare plans

Conclusion

Lactose intolerance isn’t a disease—it’s a manageable condition. By recognizing your body’s signs, adjusting your diet, and staying informed, you can live symptom-free while still enjoying your meals.

From testing for lactose intolerance to expert dietary guidance, early action is key to long-term comfort and nutritional health.

Don’t let daily discomfort go unchecked. Get a health plan that supports digestive care, OPD visits, and personalized treatments

Frequently asked questions

Can lactose intolerance develop later in life?
Yes, lactose intolerance can develop with age as your body naturally produces less lactase. Many adults begin experiencing symptoms in their 20s or 30s, especially after illness, surgery, or gut infections.
What are the alternatives to milk for lactose intolerant individuals?
Lactose-intolerant individuals can switch to plant-based milks like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk. Lactose-free cow’s milk is also available and fortified with calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
Is lactose intolerance the same as a milk allergy?
No, they’re different. Lactose intolerance is a digestive issue caused by lack of lactase enzyme, while milk allergy is an immune response to milk proteins. Allergies can be life-threatening; intolerance is typically uncomfortable but not dangerous.
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