Lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance refers to a disorder in which the body is unable to adequately digest lactose, the natural sugar in dairy products. This intolerance results from a lack of lactase, an enzyme responsible for splitting lactose in the intestines. The undigested lactose enters the large intestine, where it is broken down by intestinal bacteria and can cause bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or even vomiting in those affected. There are now many lactose-free foods that people with lactose intolerance can fall back on.