Lactose is the primary sugar in cow’s milk and other dairy products. Lactose intolerance occurs when the small intestine does not make enough of an enzyme called lactase. Your body needs lactase to break down, or digest, lactose. As a result, lactose will remain in your child’s intestines causing him or her gastrointestinal problems. Rest assured that even though it can be very uncomfortable but is not life threatening. This condition is also called lactose malabsorption. Because milk does not get digested properly, your child will have a bloated stomach, will pass gas frequently and will also get diarrhoea.

Babies who are born prematurely sometimes can't produce adequate amounts of lactase for a while. True lactose intolerance only shows up in the grade-school or teen years. While it's possible for symptoms to appear earlier, it's very unlikely that your baby is lactose intolerant. The biggest challenge for you with your child is to understand the food items that your child will be intolerant to and yet meet the calcium requirement that your child needs for the day. However, most of the times, your child will be able to continue the intake of dairy products and still manage this disorder.

When to seek expert advice

It is important that you keep a check on your child’s diet and see if there is a trend to them reacting to milk intake within 30 to 60 seconds after consumption. If you feel it is happening repeatedly, visit a doctor at the Department of Paediatrics.

You can also consult with an expert from the Section of Gastroenterology.

Disclaimer

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.