World Milk Day: 7 Signs That Show You Are Lactose Intolerant

'World Milk Day’ is an initiative started by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to recognize the importance of milk. It is observed on June 1 each year. Milk has long been regarded as a complete health drink. For many years, it was universally accepted to be the best source of calcium for kids and adults. In Hindu mythology too, milk has been given great significance. Little Ganesha and his fondness for milk is known to all. Milk also happens to be the secret behind his strength and quick wit. Loaded with nutrients like protein, Vitamin A, B1, B2, B12 and D, potassium and magnesium, milk makes for quite a nutritious and filling drink.We've grown up learning the health benefits of milk, but a new term - 'lactose intolerance',  which is associated with the inability to drink milk and its side-effects on your body, has been doing the rounds lately. 
 _{Milk is considered to the best health drink} What is Lactose Intolerance? Lactose intolerance is a condition which emerges due to low levels or the lack of an enzyme called lactase in our body. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down lactose and helping in its absorption. Lactose is the sugar found in milk and milk products. If lactose isn’t digested properly, it can disturb the colon and affect the digestive functions. The symptoms begin to appear almost immediately after consuming milk or other dairy products. However, if you feel sick after having a glass of milk once or twice, you may not have the condition. But if you happen to feel uncomfortable each time you consume milk, ice cream or any other dairy product, there may be a cause of concern. The symptoms of lactose intolerance can range from gas and bloating to severe diarrhea and cramps in the lower belly, in which case one must consult a doctor for help.Nutritionist Dr. Simran Saini explains,“If within an hour or two of consuming milk you start feeling bloated, or have problems like gas and flatulence, you may be suffering from lactose intolerance. Certain people also experience a change in motion - the stool is watery, and different in colour. In some people the condition might also cause rashes, itching and other skin allergies.” Here are some of the most common symptoms that indicate that you are suffering from lactose intolerance.
2. BloatingLook out for this symptom over a consistent period of time. If your belly sticks out within an hour or two of consuming milk or dairy products, you might be suffering from this condition.Also Read: (11 Ingenious Ways to Avoid Bloating After Eating)
3. Pain or cramps in the lower bellyIn case of lactose intolerance, your colon becomes a site of action for many uncomfortable symptoms. Pain and cramps in the lower half of your tummy are some indicative symptoms.
 
4. DiarrheaAnother tummy problem induced by lactose intolerance could be diarrhea. Loose stool or foamy stool is a common occurrence in individuals who suffer from lactose intolerance. 
 
5. VomitingIf you happen to throw up each time you consume milk products, you could be lactose intolerant, and need to switch to other alternatives.(Also Read:6 Effective Home Remedies to Prevent Vomiting)
6. Pain in bowel movementSometimes people who are lactose intolerant also complain of pain and irregular bowel movements. This is also due to the disturbance caused in the colon. 
 
7. Persistent feverIn severe cases, lactose intolerance can also result in persistent fever and fatigue, lasting for 4-6 days.  
Watch out for these signs and symptoms and be more cautious while drinking milk if you think you could be sensitive to lactose.