Lactose Intolerance:
No Appointment Necessary
Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, April 15 and May 27, 2007
Show 409
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
Ice cream is one of my favorite treats. But for millions of Americans, dairy products could cause bothersome digestive problems.
Emily Stamos, PharmD:
Not many people know that 75 percent of the world's population is lactose intolerant.
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
That's right. Lactose intolerance just means that the body doesn't have enough of a sufficient enzyme to break down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products.
Emily Stamos, PharmD:
Symptoms include stomach bloating, gas, cramps and diarrhea, and usually happen shortly after eating. And it may also surprise people to know that lactose can be found in non-dairy items like hot dogs.
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
But the good news is there's a simple way to enjoy these foods again.
Emily Stamos, PharmD:
That's right; there are many lactose free dairy products that have added the lactase enzyme to break down lactose. And supplements containing that natural enzyme are available over the counter. By taking them immediately before you eat, you can avoid the symptoms. And they're safe to take every time you eat dairy products.