What could be the causes of lactose intolerance in children?

The lactose intolerance, also known as lactose malabsorption, is an increasingly common condition today, particularly among children. In this condition, the body is unable to properly break down lactose, leading to various digestive problems. This phenomenon can be concerning for children’s development, as milk and dairy products are important sources of nutrients for the younger population.

The causes of lactose intolerance can be diverse, and not all cases are due to hereditary predisposition. There are also types that develop as a consequence of other diseases, which is why it is important for parents to focus not only on the symptoms but also on identifying the underlying causes. The aim of this article is to present the different forms of lactose intolerance and the diseases that may be behind it.

More and more people are seeking alternative solutions and dietary guidelines that can help lactose-intolerant children. Accurate diagnosis and the selection of appropriate treatment methods require a professional medical examination.

Types of Lactose Intolerance in Children

Lactose intolerance can be classified into three main categories, one of the most common being primary lactose intolerance. This condition develops with age as the body’s production of lactase enzyme gradually decreases. The lactase enzyme is responsible for breaking down lactose, so if its level is low, lactose digestion becomes problematic. This phenomenon varies in prevalence among different ethnic groups and symptoms can appear as early as childhood.

The second type, congenital lactase deficiency, is extremely rare but severe, with a genetic origin. In this case, children are born with lactase deficiency, which can lead to serious nutritional problems. The condition can often be life-threatening, and early detection can be lifesaving.

The third group is lactose intolerance in premature infants, which is related to the development of the infants’ digestive systems. In cases of premature birth, lactase levels may be low, leading to digestive disorders. It is important for parents to be aware of the different types, as treatment methods may vary.

Diseases That Can Cause Lactose Intolerance

There are numerous diseases that can trigger lactose intolerance in children. Digestive system-related issues, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn’s disease), often lead to decreased production of the lactase enzyme. These diseases cause inflammation in the intestinal mucosa, where the lactase enzyme is also located. If the mucosa is damaged, the breakdown of lactose is disrupted, leading to digestive complaints.

Infectious diseases, such as Giardia infection, can also cause temporary lactose intolerance. These parasites affect not only the absorption of milk but also other nutrients, which can lead to chronic fatigue and iron-deficiency anemia in the long run.

Contaminated small intestine syndrome, which leads to an imbalance in gut flora, can also cause lactose intolerance. In this case, due to the overgrowth of bacteria, normal lactose breakdown does not occur, leading to bloating, pain, and diarrhea. The use of local antibiotics is recommended for treatment, as they help restore gut flora.

Treatment and Diagnosis of Lactose Intolerance

It is important for parents not to resign themselves if their child appears to be lactose intolerant. Since lactose intolerance is often a consequence of other diseases, it is essential to rule out possible underlying causes during a medical examination. Thorough investigation of celiac disease, food allergies, or infections can help in accurately understanding the child’s health condition.

If it turns out that the lactose intolerance is secondary, then it may resolve after treating the underlying disease. Therefore, it is important for parents to pay attention to their child’s symptoms and seek professional help for diagnosis.

Taking lactose-containing medications is generally not recommended for those with lactose intolerance, as they can exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, completely avoiding dairy products is not always the best solution, as milk and dairy products contain many important nutrients. Consulting with a dietitian to establish an appropriate diet is advisable, as they can assist in introducing alternative foods.

Thus, the treatment of lactose intolerance involves not only alleviating symptoms but also addressing the underlying diseases. Professional medical supervision and appropriate nutritional advice are essential for maintaining the child’s health.