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Lactose Intolerance in Children and Its Impact
Lactose Intolerance in Children
Lactose intolerance in children is an increasingly common health issue affecting many families. Although at first glance it may seem like a trivial digestive problem, this disorder has deeper impacts on the child's health and the everyday life of the family. In this article, we will explain in more detail what lactose intolerance in children entails, why it is important to address it, and how to proceed if you encounter this problem.
What is lactose intolerance and how does it develop?
Lactose, also known as milk sugar, is a natural component of milk and dairy products. To digest it, the body needs the enzyme lactase, which breaks it down into simpler sugars that the body can use as a source of energy. In children suffering from lactose intolerance, however, the production of this enzyme is insufficient or completely absent. The result is that lactose remains undigested in the digestive tract, leading to unpleasant symptoms.
The causes of lactose intolerance in children can vary. For some children, it is a genetic predisposition, where the body gradually reduces lactase production with age. Other children may suffer from temporary lactose intolerance due to an intestinal infection or another health problem that has disrupted their digestive system. In rarer cases, lactose intolerance in children can be congenital, meaning the problem exists from birth.
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How to recognize lactose intolerance in children?
The symptoms of lactose intolerance in children are often mistaken for common digestive issues. The most common symptoms include:
- Bloating and flatulence – The child may complain of a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the abdomen.
- Diarrhea – Stools may be loose and acidic, causing irritation of the skin around the anus.
- Abdominal pain – Cramps in the abdomen, which occur shortly after consuming dairy products, are a typical symptom of this intolerance.
- Nausea and vomiting – In some children, consuming dairy products can cause a feeling of nausea or even vomiting.
These symptoms typically appear shortly after consuming foods containing lactose. If they recur and negatively affect the child's quality of life, it is important to seek the cause and consider the diagnosis of lactose intolerance.
Why is it important to address lactose intolerance?
Untreated lactose intolerance in children can have long-term consequences. Bone and dental health can be jeopardized due to insufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D, which are commonly found in dairy products. Chronic digestive issues can also negatively impact the child's overall well-being, growth, and development.
The psychological aspect is also important. Children with this disorder may experience frustration if they cannot eat the same foods as their peers. This can affect their self-esteem and willingness to engage in social activities, such as birthday parties, where dairy products are often served.
Diagnosing lactose intolerance in children
If lactose intolerance is suspected in a child, the first step is to visit a pediatrician. The doctor may recommend various diagnostic methods, such as an elimination diet, where all foods containing lactose are removed from the child's diet for a certain period. If symptoms improve, it is likely that lactose is the cause of the issues.
Another option is to perform a lactose tolerance test, where the child drinks a lactose solution and then blood sugar levels are measured. If the expected increase in blood sugar does not occur, lactose intolerance is diagnosed. Modern diagnostic methods also include breath tests, which analyze the amount of hydrogen in exhaled air.
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Solutions and dietary adjustments
If lactose intolerance is confirmed in a child, there is no need to panic. The current market offers a wide range of alternatives and lactose-free products that allow for a varied and nutritious diet.
- Lactose-free products – Milk, cheese, yogurts, and other lactose-free dairy products are commonly available in supermarkets.
- Plant-based alternatives – Almond, soy, oat, or coconut-based drinks and products are excellent substitutes and often contain added calcium.
- Enzyme supplements – Some children can take supplements with the lactase enzyme, which helps break down lactose when consuming dairy products. These supplements should, however, be administered after consulting a doctor.
How to support the healthy development of the child?
Even with lactose intolerance, it is possible to ensure an adequate intake of nutrients important for growth and development. Parents should ensure that the child has a varied diet including foods rich in calcium, such as broccoli, spinach, tofu, or fish with edible bones (such as sardines). In some cases, a doctor may recommend dietary supplements containing calcium and vitamin D.
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Education of the child is also important. Older children should know which foods contain lactose and how to read labels so they can make informed decisions and prevent digestive issues.
Lactose intolerance in children can initially be stressful, but with the right approach and dietary adjustments, this problem can be successfully managed. The key is early diagnosis, dietary adjustments, and ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients. Parents should be attentive to their child's needs and not hesitate to seek professional help if they have doubts. With these steps, children with lactose intolerance can live a full life without unnecessary limitations.
