A mother brings her 7-year-old child in, concerned that her son experiences stomach aches and loose stools after consuming milk. However, the child does not exhibit these symptoms when eating cheese or yogurt. What could explain these symptoms?
The child's symptoms suggest lactose intolerance. However, the fact that he can tolerate cheese and yogurt, which contain less lactose than milk, also supports this conclusion. Hard cheeses and yogurt contain bacteria that help break down lactose, making it easier for individuals with lactose intolerance to digest. A hydrogen breath test or lactose tolerance test can be used to confirm lactose intolerance. If confirmed, the child can continue to eat low-lactose dairy products like hard cheese and yogurt, but may need to limit or avoid milk or take lactase supplements when consuming milk.