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Giardiasis and Lactose Intolerance

Topic Overview

Lactase is an enzyme produced in the intestine that breaks down milk sugar (lactose). When a person becomes lactase-deficient (also called lactose-intolerant), he or she has difficulty digesting milk and milk products. The undigested lactose is used as food by bacteria that are normally found in the intestine. This can cause diarrhea, a large amount of gas, and cramps.

Giardiasis causes some people to become temporarily lactase-deficient. It may take as long as 1 month to be able to eat milk and milk products again without a problem.

If a person being treated for giardiasis has symptoms that suggest this is a problem, he or she should avoid milk products for at least 1 month. Then add them gradually back into the diet as the body can handle them.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
Last Revised September 9, 2011

Last Revised: September 9, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease

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