You wish you could chow down on that super cheesy slice of pizza, or indulge with your friends in an extra scoop of rocky road, but you know the pain it will cause. You are not alone. According to the American Dietetic Association, nearly 50 million people across the country are lactose intolerant. It is so prevalent, especially as you get older, that most doctors don't even consider it a disorder at all.

If you are wondering what exactly goes on in your body that makes you sick after you eat dairy products, it’s a natural lack of certain enzymes. Most people have the enzyme lactase in their stomachs. Lactase breaks down the lactose that comes from dairy products and turns it into energy. But without lactase, the stomach doesn't know what to do with the lactose. So, the lactose just sits there and causes gas, cramps and eventually diarrhea.

If you are lactose intolerant, you are going to have to seriously cut back on milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream and other dairy products. Know your limits and talk to your doctor about certain medicines that might help your body digest dairy products. Most of all, make sure to get enough calcium in your diet through a supplement and other sources including green leafy vegetables and calcium-fortified soy products.

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Introduction
Diabetic
Lactose Intolerance
Gluten-Free
Allergies