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As tempting as dairy products are, they will be hard to digest if you are lactose intolerant. Consulting medical experts at a trusted family practice will give you insights into the symptoms and risks this condition typically involves. Here, the physicians at Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home in Gloversville, NY, explain what causes this problem and how you can maintain it.

What Is It?

Also called lactose malabsorption, lactose intolerance typically doesn't affect or complicate your overall health. It occurs due to a deficiency of an enzyme called lactase in the small intestine. Lactase helps break down the sugar component in milk and dairy effectively. Its absence causes difficulty digesting these foods with ease. If you are lactose intolerant, consuming dairy may cause severe bloating, diarrhea, and indigestion.

What Are the Risk Factors?

Lactose intolerance commonly affects premature infants, whose small intestines need more time to fully develop. For many, it shows symptoms when they are well into adulthood. It may occur as an accompanying factor to other small intestine disorders, such as Crohn’s disease and bacterial overgrowth. Patients seeking cancer treatments may also develop it as a side effect of chemotherapy. People of Asian, African, Hispanic, and Native American descent are at a higher risk of developing this condition.

When Should You Visit a Family Practice?

Family PracticeConsulting medical experts at a local family practice will give you tips on how to alleviate the discomfort. A gastroenterologist can help you figure out how to eliminate dairy items from your diet and replace them with the right foods. If you’re concerned about calcium intake, they will advise switching to products made with lactose-free milk. You may also opt for non-dairy options like soy or almond milk to keep up with calcium requirements.

A qualified physician will help you maintain proper vitamin and mineral levels, even if you are lactose intolerant. Anytime you need professional medical advice, turn to the experienced doctors at Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home. This family practice in Gloversville has been a trusted name since 1891. For information about their gastroenterologists and other medical specialists, call (518) 725-8261 or visit their website.

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