Confusion over lactose intolerance

There appears to be a trend for parents to diagnose their children as lactose intolerant without seeking medical advice. This has serious consequences for children, who may miss out on vital nutrients.

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest foods containing lactose, such as dairy products. People who have this condition may experience abdominal pain, bloating, nausea or diarrhoea after consuming foods rich in lactose. Lactose intolerance is common amongst people of African or Asian descent.

Lactose intolerance can be easily confused with other conditions. For example, its symptoms can closely mimic those of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This is why it is important to discuss the issue with your doctor. Recent growth in awareness of the condition has led to more parents diagnosing their children as lactose intolerant. However, an incorrect diagnosis of lactose intolerance can be very damaging to children’s health.

Children who are wrongly diagnosed as lactose intolerant may miss out on an entire food group. Dairy products are rich in lactose and provide nutrients such as calcium, protein and vitamin A. These nutrients are especially important during childhood because they are needed for growth and development. For this reason, parents who suspect that their child may be lactose intolerant should seek the advice of a medical practitioner.

An individual who has been diagnosed as lactose intolerant by their doctor may still be able to enjoy dairy in moderation. Yoghurt contains bacteria that may help with the digestion of lactose. Hard cheeses should not pose any difficulties because they have low levels of lactose. Even half a glass of milk should not aggravate symptoms if it is taken with a meal and spaced throughout the day.

Avoiding dairy can have serious health consequences, especially for children. Dairy products are a food group on their own because they are rich in essential nutrients. The misdiagnosis of lactose intolerance may cause children to miss out on the essential nutrients provided by dairy.