Lactose is a sugar found in milk and milk products. Usually most people can digest this sugar but in case of lactose-intolerant people, or say people suffering from hypolactasia, the body is unable to convert lactose into glucose which is much needed for the body.

In lactose intolerant people, the body is unable to produce lactase, an enzyme which metabolizes lactose to glucose.

Natural treatment of lactose intolerance

Symptoms

Generally the symptoms associated with this condition show up after 30 minutes after consumption of lactose containing foods. General symptoms include abdominal bloating and flatulence, cramps in the stomach, abdominal pain, nausea and/or vomiting.

Lactose is a sugar found in milk and milk products. Usually most people can digest this sugar but in case of lactose-intolerant people, or say people suffering from hypolactasia, the body is unable to convert lactose into glucose which is much needed for the body.

In lactose intolerant people, the body is unable to produce lactase, an enzyme which metabolizes lactose to glucose.

Treatments

This condition can’t be fully treated however one can make use of the following natural tips and tricks to handle lactose intolerance.

Dietary modifications

Avoiding consumption of foods containing lactose is one of the safest options to control lactose intolerance. Check the labels before buying a product at the store or a supermarket.

Avoiding processed foods

Processed foods like milk powder, cheese, biscuits, cookies, pancake mixes, cake dough’s etc are rich in lactose, not suitable for a lactose intolerant person.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a good alternative option if you suffer from lactose intolerance and still wish to consume milk products. It also contains less fat than regular milk and is rich in the ‘good bacteria’

Use of alternatives

Use dairy alternatives. Instead of cow or buffalo milk, go for coconut milk, hazelnut milk, soy milk and rice milk. Studies show that fermented yogurt has less lactose percentage.

Cocoa powder

Research has proved that cocoa powder and sugar reduce the symptoms associated with lactose intolerance. So go for chocolate milkshakes instead of other flavors.

Consume lactose products

Lactase enzyme powder can be sprinkled on any milk products to aid easy digestion without any symptoms.

Supplements

Vitamin D and calcium supplements reduce symptoms. Deficiency of calcium is largely associated with lactose intolerance.

General remedies

To reduce the effects associated with lactose intolerance, it is important to determine your level of lactose intolerance. Take small servings and never consume lactose rich products all alone. Accompany them with a meal or a snack. Potatoes, breakfast cereals, salad dressing, margarine etc are lactose rich. Avoid them as far as possible.

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