What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance?

Lactose is the natural sugar in milk and many dairy products. When the small intestine does not make enough lactase, lactose can pass into the colon and draw in water while gut bacteria break it down. This can lead to bloating, wind, cramping, rumbling and loose stools. Symptoms often appear after milk, ice cream or other lactose-containing foods, but the amount that triggers them varies. Lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which can involve hives, swelling or breathing symptoms.

Keep a food and symptom diary to identify patterns rather than removing many foods at once. A clinician or nutrition counsellor can help you reduce lactose while keeping meals nutritionally balanced. Lactose-free products or smaller portions may be options for some people. If symptoms are persistent, severe or not clearly related to dairy, a clinician may discuss food intolerance testing and other causes of abdominal pain or diarrhoea.

Arrange medical advice for ongoing diarrhoea, weight loss, blood in stool, nighttime symptoms, repeated vomiting, dehydration or pain that is severe or worsening. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips or tongue, wheezing, breathing difficulty or faintness after dairy, because those symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction rather than lactose intolerance. Children, older adults and people with other digestive conditions may need tailored advice.

Do my symptoms fit lactose intolerance or another digestive condition? Should I try a structured lactose reduction? Would food intolerance testing help? How can I meet calcium and vitamin needs if I reduce dairy?