Studies have shown that in modern industrialized societies, lactose intolerance in babies is on the rise. Not only lactose intolerance, babies are developing different types of food intolerances as well. The exact reason for this is not known, although there are plenty of theories trying to explain what is going on. The first theory has to do with cleanliness. This means that modern societies are so clean and sterile; the baby’s immune system turns around and starts attacking harmless proteins found in food. The second theory tries to explain that the fetus in vitro has put up with all types of chemicals and toxins. After it is born, the baby’s body therefore cannot deal with natural compounds found in milk or other foods.

Whatever the reason may be, lactose intolerance in babies is on the rise and has become problematic. Some of the most common lactose intolerance symptoms are as follows. Little or no weight gain, excessive gas, colic, difficulty falling asleep, stomach pain, diarrhea, loose and green colored stools and vomiting. Lactose intolerance can also manifest itself as eczema. The thing to remember here is that when a baby has one or more of these symptoms, it does not always mean it is suffering from lactose intolerance. The important thing to understand is that your baby can have lactose intolerance as well as other food allergies.

This brings us to the next point and that is to understand the difference between intolerance and allergy. Lactose intolerance is not the same as milk allergy. An allergy is a more extreme form of intolerance and only a very small percentage of babies actually suffer from lactose related allergies. An allergy happens when the baby’s body over reacts by producing antibodies to react against lactose or milk products. This then manifests itself as an allergy and it is quite rare for it to happen. Lactose allergies are usually rashes, hives, asthma and anaphylaxis. Only around one percent of babies suffer from lactose related allergies.

But going back to lactose intolerance, there are basically two different types of intolerances. Strictly speaking lactose intolerance is defined as intolerance towards the sugar found in the milk. However, it is also possible for the baby to develop and intolerance towards the protein found in milk. Some babies will have intolerance towards one or the other. Even though the exact reason why this happens is still not fully understood, the actual process is known. And this is because of a deficiency lactase in the babies digestive system. Lactase is used by the body to break down lactose.

The good news in all this is that lactose intolerance in babies tends to diminish and finally go away as the baby gets older. If your baby is born with this problem then all products containing lactose whether it is animal or human based, should not be fed. Instead, cow’s milk based lactose free product should be given. However, before taking this step it is better to consult with the physician and give your baby a lactose intolerance test. This will usually involve a blood test, hydrogen breath test or stool acidity test.

Lactose intolerance in babies

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