Is lactose intolerance curable? |

Is lactose intolerance curable? The answer to that question lies at the source of the problem. In the primary cause, lactose intolerance is a permanent condition.

Already in the secondary cause, it is a condition that can be reversible when what caused damage to the intestinal mucosa is fought and the tissue reestablished. Know the difference in these cases.

The primary cause of lactose intolerance is the most common and consists of a decrease in the production of lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose, allowing the digestive process to proceed correctly.

When this break does not occur, symptoms appear: gas, diarrhea and/or swelling in the belly. The decrease in lactase, however, can be caused by genetic factors and, in this case, it is a permanent condition.

In the secondary causethe production of the enzyme lactase is impaired by damage to the intestinal mucosa that may be due to other diseases, such as infectious diarrhea, celiac disease or another type of illness that harms the tissue.

When the main cause is treated and the intestinal mucosa is restored, lactase production returns to normal levels and lactose intolerance will cease to exist. Therefore, under these conditions, lactose intolerance can be reversible and therefore has a cure.

How to live with lactose intolerance

People who are lactose intolerant with a primary cause can live harmoniously with this condition. After the diagnosis, it may be necessary to stop dairy consumption for a while to stop the symptoms and reintroduce them gradually, monitoring the amount.

It is recommended to consume low-lactose dairy products in this process, such as butter, mature cheeses, yogurts and fermented products.

Together, it is necessary to maintain the intake of calcium and vitamin D. Foods such as dark green vegetables, tofu and sardines, and habits such as exposure to the sun, need to be introduced and accompanied by a doctor or nutritionist. It may be necessary to make a food supplement in some cases.

vegetable milk recipe

Another alternative is to introduce vegetable milk (coconut milk, nuts or cereals, such as rice or oat milk) into the menu, which can be found with added calcium or easily prepared at home.

In addition, there are several options for products such as cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt without the addition of milk or any animal protein, as is the case with vegan products that also benefit the lactose intolerant public.

Currently, there is a large offer of lactose-free products and lactase enzymes in the form of capsules, sachets or pills that are ingested before consuming products with milk and that can make the day to day of a lactose intolerant person even easier.

The adaptation to these products is individual and must be accompanied by a doctor or nutritionist.