Lactose intolerance

Many people suffer from lactose intolerance that is the inability or difficulty digesting milk sugar. Generally this is due to the lack of production or to the insufficient production of the enzyme lactase, found in the intestinal juices of mammals, and able to hydrolyze lactose into glucose and galactose.

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There are several grades of intolerance, since the quantity of lactase produced by the body varies from person to person. The most common symptoms are abdominal cramping, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, etc. following the consumption of dairy products.

Specific diagnostic tests can indicate the lactose intolerance. Although there is no cure for such dysfunction, it is possible to minimize or prevent its symptoms by avoiding the ingestion of milk and its byproducts. Today there are many low-lactose products in the market that can satisfactorily replace the common ones.

Another possibility is to make use of lactase pills, a nutritional supplement, that must be ingested whenever products with lactose are ingested, and which can be taken on a daily basis without restrictions.

It is important to observe that the abolition of the use of dairy products may lead to a severe lack of calcium, considering that approximately 70% of the calcium obtained through nourishment comes from milk and its byproducts.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, look for medical assistance, to certify that it is actually a problem of lactose intolerance and to get a professional orientation adequate to your case.

The fact to present this digestive disorder, however, must not be a hindrance to taste the delicious dishes made of milk, like rice pudding, green corn gruel, cakes, puddings, stroganoff, souffles, etc.

A very efficient alternative is to replace the common milk, the condensed milk, the milk cream by the low-lactose milk, the soy milk, the soy condensed milk and the soy milk cream. The common chocolate powders enriched with milk by the organic milk free cocoa powders. These products are available in the majority of supermarkets, maybe a little more expensive it is true, but to get rid of the undesirable symptoms unleashed by the ingestion of lactose, it is certainly worthwhile!

It is not difficult to make the substitution of the ingredients, since the quantities are the same as those of the common products. Some difference in the consistency of the condensed milk and milk cream maybe noticed, but with the customary use good results can be attained.

If you wish to get some lactose free recipes of sweet and savory dishes, leave a comment and I will be glad to answer.

Research: www.iffgd.org