Lactose intolerance living in older adults

Overview

Lactose intolerance means your body has trouble digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This can cause stomach discomfort after eating dairy.

Yes, lactose intolerance is common worldwide, especially in older adults.

It can affect anyone, but it becomes more common with age, particularly in people of Asian, African, and Hispanic backgrounds.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea

Symptoms in children

• Same as common symptoms
• Fussiness after drinking milk

Symptoms in older adults

• Similar symptoms but may also include loss of appetite
• Unintended weight loss due to avoiding dairy

Causes

Main causes

• Low levels of lactase enzyme in the small intestine
• Sometimes caused by damage to the small intestine from illness or surgery

Risk factors

• Increasing age
• Family history of lactose intolerance
• Certain ethnic backgrounds
• Conditions like Crohn's disease or celiac disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Severe pain or dehydration as above

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing digestive issues after eating dairy
• To rule out other conditions

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and eating habits. They may suggest keeping a food diary or trying a lactose-free diet for a short time.

Tests that may be done

• Lactose hydrogen breath test
• Lactose tolerance test
• Stool acidity test

What to expect at your appointment

These tests are usually simple and non-invasive. The breath test is most common. You'll drink a lactose solution and breathe into a device.

Treatment

Lactose intolerance cannot be cured, but it can be managed well with diet and lifestyle changes.

Self-care at home

• Avoiding or limiting high-lactose foods like milk, ice cream, and soft cheeses
• Choosing lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products
• Eating smaller amounts of dairy at a time
• Taking lactase enzyme supplements (available over the counter) before meals with dairy

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements if you cut out dairy, to keep your bones strong.

Living with this condition

Living with lactose intolerance means being mindful of what you eat, but many people find they can still enjoy some dairy in small amounts.

Lifestyle tips

• Read food labels for hidden lactose
• Try lactose-free milk and yogurts
• Cook with lactose-free alternatives

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with other sources of calcium (like leafy greens, almonds, fortified juices) is important. Exercise, especially weight-bearing, helps maintain bone health.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Some people feel frustrated or embarrassed by their symptoms, but remember that you can still eat well and enjoy meals with planning.

Prevention

Lactose intolerance that comes with age cannot be prevented, but you can prevent symptoms by managing your diet.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration from persistent diarrhea
• Poor nutrition, especially low calcium intake leading to weaker bones (osteoporosis)

Long-term outlook

With the right changes, most people with lactose intolerance live healthy, comfortable lives without serious issues.

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