The National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases

Are You Lactose Intolerant?

Broadcast Dates: Monday, September 27 – Sunday, October 3
Right Click to Download MP3 File (1.14 MB) | Get Real Player   |

Do you often feel ill or experience cramps, bloating or gas after drinking milk or eating dairy products? If so, you may be lactose intolerant -- at least 30 million Americans are.

Hi, I’m Dr. Griffin Rodgers, bringing you Healthy Moments from the NIH. I’m the Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Lactose intolerance results from the inability to digest lactose, the major sugar found in milk and milk products. If you frequently experience discomfort within two hours of having dairy products, visit your doctor to determine whether your symptoms represent lactose intolerance. If they do, limiting dairy products can reduce your symptoms.

But make sure you find other calcium and vitamin D sources. Oranges, broccoli, and almonds are high in calcium. Eggs and salmon are rich in vitamin D.

And for more tips, visit our website at NIDDK or MyMajicDC.com .  This is Dr. Griffin Rodgers. Join me next week for more “Healthy Moments.”