The cause of lactose (milk sugar) intolerance is the inability of the body to break down or split the lactose, a disaccharide into monosaccharide or glucose. The enzyme, in the small intestine, that is responsible for this function of carbohydrate digestion is lactase.  When lactase is in short supply bloating, gas, abdominal cramping and diarrhea may occur.

To see if the intolerance of lactose is the problem refrains from all dairy product for a period of three weeks. If the symptoms disappear then the lactose is most likely the problem.

It is suggested by many to withdraw all dairy products from the diet and replace them with dairy alternatives such as soy "milk" and "cheese" and rice "milk".

I however would strongly discourage the use of ANY unfermented soy products...(see  link in sources) If one wishes to abstain from dairy, organic rice beverages alternated with nut beverages would be my SECOND CHOICE..

My FIRST choice is raw or low temperature pasteurized, dairy products from a reputable organic farm where their herds are grass fed rather than grain fed.

The milk, from pasture fed cows, contains enzymes that help break down the lactose. These enzymes are destroyed through regular and ultra pasteurization processes.

If trying raw dairy for the first time refrain from all commercial dairy products for a week before introducing the raw milk. This allows the body the opportunity to clear itself of the antibodies that can cause reactions to milk products...Then introduce the raw milk slowly perhaps trying homemade yogurt first.

Eat Well, Be Well,

Blessings,

Judith Parker, Holistic Nutritionist

Sources

ACHS Nat 205 text

Weston A. Price foundation http://www.westonaprice.org

Soy Alert http://www.westonaprice.org/soy/index.html

Traditional Foods are Your Best Medicine ,Ronald F Schmid, ND 1997