If necessary, your child's doctor may prescribe medicines to relieve symptoms. For many children, an ice cream sundae or a cool glass of milk at lunch means an afternoon of cramps, gas, and diarrhea. If this happens to your child, he may be one of the more than 30 million Americans who have lactose intolerance. This condition is common in Americans with Asian, African, and Mediterranean family origins. In this condition, the body manufactures too little lactase, an enzyme found in the intestines.
Lactase breaks down lactose, a sugar that's found in milk and milk products.
When lactose isn't broken down in the intestines, it ferments and causes gas and diarrhea. If you notice that milk products seem to affect your child's digestive system , talk to your child's doctor. Growing children still need the calcium and vitamins found in dairy products. So if milk is a problem for your child, your child's doctor can suggest other types of foods that will supply these nutrients . Dairy products made especially for persons with lactose intolerance are sold in many supermarkets.