Lactose Intolerance 101: Signs, Symptoms, and What to Eat Instead

If you’ve ever felt bloated, gassy, or experienced abdominal pain after eating ice cream or drinking milk, you might be one of the millions affected by lactose intolerance. This common digestive condition occurs when the body lacks enough lactase—an enzyme needed to break down lactose, the sugar found in dairy products.

Lactose intolerance can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, cramping, diarrhea, excessive gas, and nausea, typically occurring within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy. It’s not dangerous, but it can significantly affect quality of life—especially if left undiagnosed.

Diagnosis is straightforward. At Husney Medical in Brooklyn, Dr. Jack Husney may use a hydrogen breath test, a lactose tolerance test, or elimination diets to confirm lactose intolerance. Once diagnosed, the good news is: you don’t have to suffer.

Managing lactose intolerance is easier today than ever before. Many patients simply reduce or eliminate dairy from their diet. Others may tolerate lactose-free dairy products, such as lactose-free milk or aged cheeses like cheddar and parmesan. Over-the-counter lactase enzyme tablets can also help digest dairy when taken with meals.

Plant-based alternatives have exploded in popularity and include almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, and coconut yogurt, giving patients plenty of tasty substitutes. It's also important to check labels—many processed foods contain hidden lactose in the form of whey or milk solids.

If symptoms persist despite avoiding dairy, it may signal other conditions like IBS or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which Dr. Husney also evaluates and treats.

Lactose intolerance doesn't mean you have to give up flavor or nutrition. With the right guidance, you can enjoy a dairy-free lifestyle without discomfort. If you’re experiencing digestive issues after dairy, contact our Brooklyn office today to schedule an evaluation.