Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of an enzyme in the body called lactase. This enzyme is responsible for digesting lactose, the sugar present in milk, allowing it to be properly absorbed by the body, avoiding digestive disorders.

But how is it diagnosed?

Generally, the person themselves realizes that they have this type of intolerance because every time they consume cow's milk and its derivatives they suffer symptoms of abdominal discomfort, pain, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea and swelling in the belly area. But it is always important to see a doctor and request tests to finally diagnose whether these symptoms are really due to lactase. 

If the diagnosis shows that the person does indeed suffer from lactose intolerance, what is the treatment? Treatment is through a diet restricting dairy products, which are all milk-based products. There is also the option for those who are lactose intolerant to use medication consisting of lactase, which must be taken every time the person consumes milk or products derived from it.

There are many questions on this subject, some of which I'll mention below:

 - Can lactose intolerance sufferers lose weight or put on weight?

Lactose intolerance is not responsible for weight gain or loss in those who are intolerant to milk  and its derivatives, but as the person starts to restrict consumption of this type of cow's milk, which is caloric, and begins to consume other types of milk such as  soy milk, coconut milk, rice milk, but without exaggeration, it can lead to weight loss, of course accompanied by a healthy diet.

- What are the types of lactose intolerance?

• Congenital deficiency - The body doesn't produce any lactase enzyme from birth, it can happen when the parents are carriers of this type of intolerance, it is certainly the rarest type.
• Primary deficiency - This occurs when, as we get older, the body's production of lactose decreases, so over time the person begins to experience symptoms.
• Secondary or acquired deficiency - When the production of lactase is reduced due to an intestinal problem, in this case the intolerance may be temporary, because if the intestinal problem is treated, the intolerance will no longer exist.

 
It's important to know that only a doctor will know what type and degree of lactose intolerance a person has. As soon as you start to experience symptoms of lactose intolerance, see a doctor and never self-medicate.