I have struggled with lactose intolerance my entire life! Some foods trigger it worse than others, but I still can’t stop myself from eating ice cream haha!
I wanted to learn more about our bodies so here we are!
Lactose is the sugar found in cow’s milk that is broken down by the enzyme lactase in our bodies. Most young mammals possess lactase but eventually the quantity lessens post weaning from their mothers milk. For the mammals who lack the enzyme completely, lactose goes through the colon where it feeds the bacteria there. When the bacteria is fed, it produces gas and fluids that results in bloating, cramping, toots, and even diarrhea.
About 7000-8000 years ago a mutation occurred in the gene that controls lactase production that allowed adult mammals to be able to break down lactose. Depending on the region in the world, certain populations show higher lactose intolerance than others. Asian populations show a high 90% of people who are lactose intolerant while 35-40% of European adults are lactose intolerant.
Symptoms can typically be seen to develop for people under the age of 16 but can also develop later in life possibly due to traumatic injury to the stomach or other organs. It is possible that adults who claim to be lactose intolerant can consume dairy products in small quantities throughout the day without experiencing symptoms. When you are lactose intolerant It is best to avoid milks and cheeses from cows, sheep, buffalo and other similar animals.
Although it is rumored that less dairy can help with clearing up skin conditions it’s not necessarily the truth. Dairy can be good for us.
You can find lactose free items that are actually pretty good! Coconut milk is good as well as almond milk! They make lots of vegan cheese from nuts that can be pretty tasty also. The newest product I’ve seen is the A2 milk that has the A1 protein removed making it easier on digestion. There are so many options!!
I am a cheese and ice cream lover and won’t stop eating them even if they give me slight stomach aches and gas! Lol
Xox,
Z
