How to Treat Lactose Overload in Babies

how to treat lactose overload in babies

Lactose overload in babies is an infant digestive disorder that can cause GI symptoms, such as loose, foamy stools, green stools, and loose bowel movements. It can also cause bloating, pain, and discomfort. There are medications and dietary changes that can help reduce these symptoms. In addition, a lactase enzyme supplement can be added to milk products.

When a baby has lactose intolerance, there is a lack of the lactase enzyme that breaks down lactose in the stomach and intestines. This enzyme is produced by the brush border of the intestinal lining. If the lining becomes damaged due to infection, a chronic irritation, or a viral infection, the enzyme can’t be produced. However, if the lining is healthy, the amount of the enzyme will increase.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance may begin within 30 minutes to two hours after consuming dairy. Some babies with lactose intolerance have a higher than normal concentration of hydrogen in their breath, but this is usually temporary. Once the enzyme is re-produced, the level of hydrogen in the breath should go back to normal.

The symptoms of lactose intolerance can be severe, but they may be less severe in babies who consume a small amount of dairy products with their meals. Some babies may also have diarrhea after ingesting large amounts of lactose. For more information on how to treat lactose overload in babies, contact a physician or other health professional.

Infants with lactose intolerance need to avoid foods with high levels of lactose, and they may need to take a lactase enzyme supplement to prevent GI issues. Although there is no known cure for lactose intolerance, the symptoms can be minimized by avoiding dairy products, and introducing small amounts of dairy products over a period of time. Medications such as antacids can delay the gastric emptying time.

Babies with lactose intolerance should only drink breast milk or formula if they are fully nourished by other food. They should also receive effective feeding management advice to ensure they are not overfed. Many health professionals don’t have a good understanding of how to manage feeding in newborns, or even bottle-feeding.

Symptoms of lactose overload in babies can occur when the baby’s stomach is overly stretched because of a large volume feed. A breastfeeding mother can help prevent this condition by shortening the length of feeds, and allowing the baby to choose the length of the feed. Since the fat content of breast milk increases during the feed, this can help to decrease the volume of the milk that passes through the intestinal tract. Similarly, a mother who bottles can shorten the bottle to ensure the breast milk has the time to fully digest before passing through the gastrointestinal tract.

Babies with lactose overload are often given medications, and many are advised to avoid reintroducing dairy products. These medicines can provide some relief, but the symptoms can also return. Ideally, babies with lactose intolerance should limit their exposure to dairy for at least a week.