Lactose intolerance specialists
Lactose Intolerance Specialists: Support For Adults & Kids
- Dr Callum Pearce
- First published:
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Level 3, Suite 302
44 Barry Marshall Parade
Murdoch WA 6150
Lactose intolerance in adults and children
What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose is the natural sugar found in dairy products. Our bodies need an enzyme called lactase to break it down properly. If you don’t make enough lactase, lactose stays undigested in your gut and can lead to symptoms like bloating, wind, tummy pain or diarrhoea.
“It’s a common issue we see in our Murdoch clinic. Sometimes the symptoms are subtle; other times, they’re quite uncomfortable. But the good news is, it’s manageable once we know what’s going on.”
Dr Callum Pearce
Gastroenterologist Murdoch
Can you develop lactose intolerance later in life?
Yes, definitely. Many people don’t have any trouble with dairy in childhood but notice problems in their 20s, 30s or even later. This is because the body can naturally produce less lactase as we age. Sometimes it also follows a bout of gastro or comes up alongside other gut conditions like coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
On the other hand, some children can experience lactose intolerance. It’s often temporary – especially after a tummy bug – and may settle over time. But it’s still worth checking if dairy is a regular trigger for discomfort.
Can babies be born with lactose intolerance?
Yes. This is called congenital lactose intolerance, where a baby is born without the ability to produce lactase. Symptoms usually show up very early, often within days of starting breast or formula feeding, and can include diarrhoea, dehydration and poor weight gain. These babies need a special lactose-free formula and ongoing support.
Can lactose intolerance develop later in babies or toddlers?
Yes. This is known as secondary lactose intolerance, and it often happens after a tummy bug or when the gut lining is irritated. It’s usually temporary. Once the gut heals, most children can go back to having lactose again without trouble.
Will my child have to avoid dairy forever?
Not always. In many cases, especially when lactose intolerance happens after an illness, children can gradually return to dairy as the gut recovers. Even in long-term cases, many kids can still tolerate small amounts of lactose or use lactose-free alternatives.
Lactose intolerance symptoms
What symptoms should you look for?
Whether it’s you or your child, symptoms usually show up soon after having dairy and might include:
- Bloating or a swollen belly
- Wind or gurgling sounds in the tummy
- Diarrhoea or loose stools
- Stomach cramps
- Feeling nauseous
These symptoms can look similar to other conditions too, so it’s important not to jump to conclusions without checking.
How do we diagnose lactose intolerance?
It usually starts with a good chat about what’s been going on, followed by some simple tests if needed. Sometimes a food diary is enough to spot a pattern. Other times, we might suggest tests like a hydrogen breath test, or exclude other conditions that can mimic the symptoms.
Dr Callum Pearce
Gastroenterologist Murdoch
What can you do about it?
The first step is often reducing or avoiding dairy to see if symptoms improve. Luckily, there are plenty of lactose-free options now, including milk, yoghurt and even cheese. Enzyme tablets can also help adults enjoy small amounts of dairy without symptoms.
For babies and children, we’re more cautious, especially if dairy is a major part of their diet. We might suggest lactose-free formula or milk alternatives, but always with an eye on making sure they’re still getting the calcium and nutrients they need.
At Westside Gastro, we’re experienced in managing lactose intolerance in both adults and children. We’ll guide you on how to adjust the diet safely without cutting corners on nutrition.
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Lactose intolerance specialists
When should you come and see us?
If you or your child are regularly feeling unwell after having dairy, or if the symptoms are affecting daily life, it’s worth having a chat with your GP. They might refer you to see one of our lactose intolerance specialists.
We’ll help confirm what’s going on and support you with a practical plan to feel better.
