Lactose Intolerance and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Lactose intolerance is the inability to properly digest milk and other dairy products. It affects billions of people worldwide [8]. The main symptoms are diarrhea and stomach pain that may be mild or severe. You may also become bloated due to gas buildup in your intestines.
There is no cure for lactose intolerance but it can be managed. Most people with lactose intolerance lead normal lives. Many people who have only mild symptoms still include milk and dairy products in the diet.
Irritable bowel syndrome [9] affects the colon. It often causes abdominal cramps and bloating. Depending on the type you have, you may alternate diarrhea and constipation. The cause of this condition is not clear, but diet, stress, and infections may contribute to it.
There is no cure but avoiding trigger foods and other lifestyle changes may help in managing symptoms.