Many people suffer from an intolerance to lactose.  As a result, they cannot consume milk or dairy products.  Lactose intolerance seems to be a growing phenomenon in the U.S.  However, a new study finds that many individuals who claim to be lactose intolerant in fact may not be intolerant at all.

Researchers in Barcelona, Spain found that more than half of hospital patients who believe that they were lactose intolerant could absorb a normal amount of milk sugar without symptoms of cramping, gas, or other bowel problems.  The researchers examined more than 300 participants and found that more than half could process lactose normally with fewer symptoms that they experienced at home.  One possible explanation for these findings is that the individuals believed they were suffering from lactose intolerance when in fact the symptoms that they were experiencing resulted from irritable bowel syndrome, which presents similarly.  The symptoms could also be linked to a previous experience with over-consuming a lactose product.

Lactose intolerance is caused by the inability to digest lactose in the body.  This results from not having enough lactase, an enzyme, in the gut to absorb the milk sugar.  Consequently, bacteria feast on the leftover lactose, which leads to symptoms such as flatulence, stomach pain after ingesting lactose.

Other studies have also found that those who perceive themselves to be lactose intolerant are not always suffering from the condition.  Perceived lactose intolerance can have negative health consequences, such as lower bone mass, higher blood pressure, and increase risk of colon cancer, as a result of cutting back on dairy products.  Dieticians recommend slowly cutting back on milk and dairy products if you suspect that you might have a lactose intolerance.  Still, it is important to consult your doctor and not take matters into your own hands in order to prevent negative effects resulting from a false intolerance.