Dairy products are an essential part of our diet. It is a great source of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, D, B12, and more. However, some people may not have the best experience while consuming them. Dairy intolerance is a common problem faced by many around the world. In fact, about 65% of the human population has a reduced ability to digest lactose after infancy, according to MedlinePlus. Lactose, sometimes referred to as 'milk sugar', is naturally found in dairy products like milk, butter, and yoghurt. While normally it is broken down or digested, lactose intolerance occurs when the body is unable to do that.
While some people have permanent or primary lactose intolerance, which can be a life-long condition, there are those who only occasionally develop the condition. Let us find out what causes temporary lactose or dairy intolerance and whether it can be reversed.
Also Read: Why Are Some People Lactose Intolerant? Expert Shares Management Tips
What Causes Temporary Dairy Intolerance?
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Pradipta Sethy, Director - Gastroenterology, Medica Multispecialty Hospital, Kolkata, says, "Temporary dairy intolerance, also known as secondary lactose malabsorption, occurs when the body temporarily reduces its production of lactase, the enzyme necessary for digesting lactose."
There are two main types of lactose intolerance: primary and secondary lactose intolerance.
Primary lactose intolerance is the most common type, with a prevalence of up to 70% of the world's population, but not all of them are symptomatic, according to an article published by StatPearls Publishing. This occurs due to low levels of lactase, which develop after childhood.
Temporary, or secondary, lactose intolerance is acquired, meaning it may occur in a person when their small intestine decreases lactase production after an illness, injury, or surgery.
Some of the common causes include:
Gastrointestinal infections: Viral or bacterial infections affecting the intestines, such as rotavirus or Giardia lamblia, can damage the intestinal lining and reduce lactase production.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can inflame and damage the intestines, leading to decreased lactase activity.
Coeliac disease: An autoimmune disorder affecting the intestines, coeliac disease can impair lactose absorption due to intestinal damage.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): An excessive amount of bacteria in the small intestine can interfere with lactase function and digestion.
Post-surgical changes: Intestinal surgeries or injuries can disrupt the normal function of the intestines, resulting in temporary lactose intolerance.
Symptoms Of Lactose Intolerance
Dr Sethy says, “While occasional digestive discomfort following dairy consumption is common, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying health condition.”
Symptoms that should prompt concern include:
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the stool
- Recurrent vomiting
Can Temporary Dairy intolerance be Reversed?
According to Dr Sethy, temporary dairy intolerance can often be managed or reversed by addressing the underlying cause.
He says, “If a gastrointestinal infection or inflammatory condition is identified, targeted treatment can help restore normal intestinal function and improve lactose tolerance.”
“Dietary modifications, such as reducing lactose intake or using lactase supplements, can alleviate symptoms while the underlying issue resolves. In some cases, gradual reintroduction of dairy products may be possible as the intestinal lining heals,” he adds, highlighting that it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalised guidance and to monitor the condition's progression.