What does it mean when you drink milk and have diarrhea the next day?

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest the sugar (lactose) in milk and other dairy products. You may have lactose intolerance if you experience symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

Lactose intolerance occurs when your small intestine doesn't make enough of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose into simpler sugars that your body can absorb. If you don't have enough lactase, the undigested lactose passes into your colon, where it can cause symptoms such as diarrhea.

Lactose intolerance is a common condition, and it can affect people of all ages. It is more common in people who are of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent. Lactose intolerance can also develop after certain types of surgery, such as gastric bypass surgery.

If you think you may have lactose intolerance, you can talk to your doctor. There are several ways to diagnose lactose intolerance, including:

* A hydrogen breath test

* A lactose tolerance test

* A stool test

If you are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, you will need to avoid or limit your intake of dairy products. There are many lactose-free dairy products available, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. You can also take lactase enzyme supplements to help you digest lactose.

Here are some tips for managing lactose intolerance:

* Avoid or limit your intake of dairy products.

* Choose lactose-free dairy products.

* Take lactase enzyme supplements before consuming dairy products.

* Eat small amounts of dairy products frequently throughout the day.

* Avoid eating dairy products on an empty stomach.

If you have lactose intolerance, it is important to manage your condition to avoid symptoms such as diarrhea. By avoiding or limiting your intake of dairy products, you can help to improve your digestive health.