This gas build-up and the presence of these fatty acids cause the uncomfortable symptoms associated with lactose intolerance, such as bloating, diarrhoea, gas, stomach cramps and nausea
The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the amount of lactose consumed and the individual’s level of lactase deficiency.
“We took subjects from different centres including Lucknow and Bengaluru and found that over 74% were lactose mal absorbers, which means they cannot digest milk,” Dr Uday C Ghoshal, who led the 2015 study told India Today.
So, how does one find out whether one is latose intolerant? Chef Akshay, head chef at Zylo by Kakapo, Gurugram, told India Today of a few ways.
1. Symptom tracking
Keep track of your symptoms after consuming dairy products.
2. Elimination diet
Try eliminating dairy products from your diet for some time, typically two to four weeks, and then gradually reintroduce them while monitoring your symptoms.
3. Lactose intolerance test kits
“You can also try some over-the-counter lactose intolerance test kits that are available,” says Akshay.