Does your baby suffer from cramping, diarrhea and gas every time they eat yogurt, cheese or cow’s milk?

The chances are slim, but it’s possible that your little one may be lactose intolerant. Most kids don’t experience symptoms of lactose intolerance until they are a bit older, but it’s still important to rule out.

Lactose intolerance occurs when a person doesn’t produce enough lactase, an enzyme that breaks down the lactose (natural sugars), to effectively digest milk.  When they consume dairy products, a lactose intolerant person can experience painful cramps, noticeable bloating, and serious gas – sometimes even diarrhea.

Sometimes, very young babies suffer from functional lactase deficiency, a temporary lactose intolerance that babies generally outgrow before they turn one.

Think your child may be lactose intolerant?

DO get in touch with your child’s pediatrician ASAP and explain the symptoms. The problem may be something different altogether.

DO curb dairy and substitute with lactose-free or soy based substitutes.

DO remind your pediatrician if your baby had recently taken antibiotics. They can decrease lactase production in a normal digestive tract and cause temporary intolerance.

DO consult an allergist if lactose intolerance persists to rule out a possible dairy protein allergy.

DON’T shun dairy altogether – until you see your doctor. Kids need the calcium, and most lactose intolerant people can tolerate just a little bit of dairy in their diet if it is paired with other foods.