Lactose Intolerance in Babies

What is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is where the consummation of an amount of lactose can be too much for our bodies to digest, thus causing symptoms such as varying degrees of gastric distress.

Lactose is a sugar compound found inside milk. Any milk produced by animal or human contains lactose. Inside the small intestine, an enzyme called ‘lactase' is produced, which is the enzyme the body needs to break down milk. Without enough lactase, the body can struggle to cope with lactose intake, sparking symptoms of lactose intolerance.

Who is most affected by Lactose Intolerance?

Adults are usually the most susceptible to experiencing lactose intolerance symptoms, whilst babies usually have a high threshold for lactose, as a temporary genetic trait to allow them to wean on breast milk. Some babies however do suffer from lactose intolerance, and in this situation it is important for the wellbeing of the baby to change your current method of feeding.

If you are breastfeeding and your baby is experiencing symptoms of lactose intolerance, there is absolutely nothing you can do but to stop breastfeeding. Breast milk contains lactose, and in continuing to feed your baby in this way, your baby will continue to suffer symptoms. It may be an upsetting thing to discover your baby is reacting badly to your breast milk, but for the sake of a happier baby, you must stop.

You may wish to consult with your doctor about alternatives to breastfeeding, but generally the only alternative is to bottle feed you baby using a lactose-free formula. These are usually readily available from most good chemists.