Thursday, February 17, 2011

  • LACTOSE  INTOLERANCE                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   As we know that milk is good for our kids,but there are certain children who are unable to digest milk or may be LACTOSE INTOLERANT.For such kids, parents are continuously worried about their calcium and other nutrients that are derived from milk
 When  the body is unable to digest significant amounts of lactose,which is the main sugar found in milk and other dairy products,this state is called lactose intolerance.
 Symptoms commonly includes vomiting,stomach ache,bloating,gas and diarrhea.Any of these symptoms can be seen within half an hour to 2 hrs of eating foods containing lactose.Severity depends on tolerance of each child.

Diagnosis includes a simple stool-test on recommendation from the doctor.
 But just chill and do not panic.Lactose Intolerance can be managed well by keeping an eye on your child's diet.In case of mild intolerance the child can digest small amounts of dairy foods,but for severe cases,diet completely free of lactose may be necessary.

•   Read food labels carefully. In addition to milk, dahi, ice cream, cheese, butter, and other dairy products, lactose can also be found in bread, cookies and even your child’s favourite chocolate.
• Try substituting cow’s milk with other lactose-free milk formulas or soy milk available in the market.
•   As dairy foods are the main source of calcium and Vitamin D in children, other calcium-rich foods like broccoli, beans, fortified cereals, oats etc. are recommended for kids with lactose intolerance to make up for the calcium deficiency. Certain varieties of fish like salmon and sardines and pro-biotic yoghurt can also be included in the diet.
•     Apart from food sources like eggs and liver, sunlight helps the body naturally absorb vitamin D. So let your children play in the sun for a while everyday!
Relax! It is after all food sensitivity, not a serious illness. With some smart meal planning, lactose intolerance can be easily managed. 

cheers!!!!!!!!!!

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