Lactose Intolerance: How to Care for Your Child

Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and milk products. Lactose intolerance is when the body cannot make enough lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose during digestion. When lactose is not broken down, it can cause bloating, cramps, belly pain, gas, diarrhea, or vomiting. You can help your child feel better by making some diet changes.

• Your child may need to avoid dairy products containing lactose, such as milk, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt. If so, try lactose-free versions of these foods.

• Read labels of prepared food to see if dairy products (milk, whey, curds) or lactose are in the ingredients.

• If your health care provider recommends a lactase supplement to help break down lactose, your child might be able to eat some lactose-containing products. Give a lactase supplement at the beginning of the lactose-containing meal as directed.

• If your health care provider says it's OK for your child to have some lactose-containing dairy products:

  • Give them in the amounts directed.

  • Your child should eat them along with non-dairy foods.

  • Try hard cheeses and yogurt labeled "live culture." Some children with lactose intolerance can eat these foods without any problems.

• To be sure your child gets enough calcium in their diet, offer calcium-rich foods that don't have lactose, such as:

  • broccoli, collard greens, kale, turnip greens

  • dried fruit, fortified orange juice

  • salmon, almonds, soybeans, tofu

  • lactose-free dairy foods

• If you're concerned about your child getting enough calcium, ask your health care provider about giving a calcium supplement. Your health care provider may also check vitamin D levels and recommend a vitamin D supplement.

• Consider going to see a registered dietitian to help you plan a well-balanced diet that includes calcium-rich foods.

Your child:

• has blood or mucus in the stools (poop)

• continues to have symptoms even after following the health care provider's instructions

• is losing weight

Will my child always be lactose intolerant? For most people, lactose intolerance lasts throughout life.

Some kids develop lactose intolerance for a short period after being sick with diarrhea. This type of lactose intolerance goes away as the intestines heal.

How do health care providers test for lactose intolerance? Health care providers first ask questions about a child's symptoms and diet. Sometimes they can check for lactose intolerance by testing the breath for hydrogen levels before and after a child drinks lactose.