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