Lactose intolerance and IBS share similar symptoms and may coexist — differentiating them is important for correct treatment.
Lactose Intolerance:
- Deficiency of lactase enzyme that digests milk sugar.
- Very common in Arabs — 60-80% of adults.
- Symptoms occur only after dairy products: bloating, gas, diarrhea, cramps.
- Diagnosed by Lactose Breath Test.
How They're Related:
- Lactose is a FODMAP — increases IBS symptoms.
- Many IBS patients think they're lactose intolerant and vice versa.
- Solution: Trial lactose elimination for 3 weeks — if symptoms resolve completely, it's lactose. If partially, possibly both.
Practical Tips:
- Yogurt and hard cheeses are low in lactose — usually tolerated.
- Lactose-free milk available in Jordan.
- Lactase enzyme supplements before consuming dairy.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we test for lactose intolerance as part of comprehensive IBS evaluation.