Coeliac Disease And Lactose Intolerance
It’s also possible for people with untreated coeliac disease to experience temporary lactose intolerance. Lactose is the sugar found in the milk from humans, cows, goats and sheep. Symptoms of lactose intolerance are similar to that of coeliac disease and include nausea, bloating, abdominal pain and diarrheoa.
Our bodies need the lactase enzyme to break down lactose. It’s found in the same part of the gut that is damaged when someone with coeliac disease eats gluten. This damage to the gut means that either not enough lactase is produced, or what is there isn’t working properly.
Sometimes untreated coeliac disease can cause temporary lactose intolerance. Damage to the gut means not enough lactase is produced.Dr Adam Fox, Paediatric Allergy Consultant
Once a gluten free diet is begun, the lining of the gut is able to heal and lactose digestion returns to normal. Lactose intolerance is usually only temporary.
Removing foods that contain lactose from your diet will significantly reduce your calcium intake. If you think you have a problem digesting dairy products and suspect you may be lactose intolerant, you should seek advice from your doctor or dietitian immediately. If lactose intolerance is the problem, they will be able give you specific advice on a diet that contains enough calcium from other sources.
Dr Adam Fox,
Tanya Wright , BSc hons, HPC registered,
Ria Campbell,
Ingredients and information are subject to frequent changes beyond our control – always be vigilant and seek medical advice if you have special dietary requirements.
