Define the Diet intervention for lactose intolerance?
Lactose is present in dairy products such as milk, cheese, yoghurt, ice cream etc. Hidden sources of lactose may include bread, candy, cookies, biscuits, sauces, gravies, soups etc. Hence, depending upon the amount of lactose an individual can handle, major or minor dietary restrictions may be imposed. Most lactose-intolerant children can digest yoghurt and buttermilk. On settling of the diarrhoea, they should begin with yoghort which is better tolerated as during its fermentation it becomes richer in bacteria which produces β-galactoside - this hydrolyzes lactosc. Later milk (50 ml/kg/day) may be tried if tolerated.
Because dairy products are restricted or avoided, which are a major source of calcium, an important mineral for children to develop strong bones, it is essential that other foods rich in calcium be given to make up for the loss. Tofu, broccoli, pulses (hengal gram whole, horse gram, rajmah), nuts and oilseeds, green leafy vegetables (particularly amaranth-r, fenugreek), fish and sea foods are excellent sources of this mineral besides dairy products. Further, use of lactose free formulas cull be advised, like soya feeds, amylase rich foods arc advised and rice based ORS advised.