Intolerance to certain foods

Emobileclinic Trending Topic: Food Intolerances

Intolerance to certain foods may arise from disorders in the digestive or absorption process with the gut. Lactose intolerance arises from the lack of the digestive enzyme lactase. A hereditary fructose intolerance is similar to a lactose intolerance in that there is a hereditary lack of enzymes to metabolize fructose. A fructose and sorbitol malabsorption may result in a reduced absorption of these carbohydrates by the gut thereby allowing intestinal bacteria to consume it. The consumption of the lactose, fructose and sorbitol by intestinal bacteria gives rise to hydrogen gas.

Symptoms

Belching

Nausea

Bloating

Abdominal cramps

Diarrhea

Vomiting 

Fatigue

Liver enlargement and seizures

Diagnosis 

Breathe test to detect hydrogen

Stool sample test to determine that amount of acidity 

Lactose tolerance test to establish lactose intolerance

Treatment 

A diet excluding these foods is essential. In lactose intolerance, dairy must be discontinued and a strict lactose free diet must be followed. Fructose intolerance and fructose or sorbitol mal-absorption also require dietary changes.