Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a condition which arises following an episode of gastroenteritis where the brush border of the small bowel - the small finger-like projections responsible for the absorption of nutrients - has been damaged. Re-introduction of lactose, a sugar found in milk, produces a return of diarrhoea. This is thought to be due to sensitisation of the gut border to the sugar, causing malabsorption. There may be associated intolerance of other components of the diet. Exclusion of cow’s milk will help, and other dietary manipulation may be necessary. Oral rehydration solutions, as ever with diarrhoea in small people, will help maintain fluid and energy levels.
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