Tips

Is Milk Causing Your Stomach Ache? Understanding the Why and How to Fix It

Drinking milk can sometimes lead to an upset stomach, bloating, nausea, and even diarrhea. But why does this happen, and what can be done to alleviate these unpleasant symptoms? Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of digestive health and uncover the secrets to enjoying dairy without discomfort.

Administrator

11 July, 2024

1Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance refers to the body’s inability to absorb and digest lactose, also known as milk sugar, which is found in breast milk, cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and more.

Cause

It is caused by a deficiency or absence of the enzyme lactase in the digestive system, which is responsible for breaking down lactose into simpler forms of glucose and galactose for easier digestion.

When lactose is not properly broken down, it can lead to digestive issues such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and even diarrhea.

In cases of diarrhea caused by lactose intolerance, continuing to consume milk can worsen the condition.

Treatment and substitution with lactose-free milk are recommended. However, lactose intolerance can be managed over time.

One approach is to gradually introduce milk into the diet, starting with small amounts 30 minutes after a meal and gradually increasing the quantity over several days. Within 3 to 7 days, the body should adjust to this type of sugar, reducing abdominal pain. If unsuccessful, discontinue for a while and retry this method.

Alternatively, yogurt can be a suitable substitute for milk. The lactose in yogurt has been converted into lactic acid, reducing the likelihood of abdominal pain and loose stools, while retaining the same protein and calcium content as fresh milk.

For further advice, check out our additional tips to alleviate abdominal pain effectively at home.

2Switching to a New Brand of Milk

Each brand of milk has a unique formula, and you may find that your body doesn’t agree with a particular ingredient in a new brand.

If you’ve been using the same type of milk without issues and only experience stomach pain after switching to a new brand, it’s possible that your body isn’t compatible with that specific milk.

To avoid this, introduce new milk gradually and in small amounts to gauge your body’s reaction.

If your current milk suits your digestive system and contributes to your overall health, there’s no need to switch to a new brand, as all milk types provide similar basic nutritional benefits.

3Consuming Low-Quality Milk

Low-quality milk may include counterfeit or expired products, or milk that has been improperly stored, resulting in clumping, mold, or spoilage.

Consuming such milk is likely to cause digestive issues.

It is important to verify the source and expiration date of the milk and ensure that it is stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4Improper Milk Preparation

Preparing milk may seem straightforward, but incorrect preparation can impact its quality.

Using water that is too hot can reduce or alter the nutritional content of the milk, while water that is not hot enough may not properly cook the milk, potentially leading to stomach pain for those with sensitive digestion.

Learn how to prepare milk according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal quality.

5Drinking Milk on an Empty Stomach

If you have stomach ulcers, you are more likely to experience abdominal pain when drinking milk on an empty stomach.

Milk is nutrient-rich and contains vitamins and minerals. Drinking it on an empty stomach can cause fatigue and drowsiness due to the release of stomach acids, which react with casein in the milk, leading to digestive issues.

It is recommended to consume milk 30 minutes after a meal.

If you experience stomach pain after drinking milk, consider whether any of the above reasons apply to your situation.

Frequently asked questions

Milk can cause stomach aches due to lactose intolerance, which is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk. This is caused by a lack of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose into digestible form. Other possible reasons include milk allergies, which trigger an immune response, and high amounts of lactose in milk.

Lactose intolerance is quite common, affecting up to 65% of the global population. The condition varies in severity and prevalence across different regions, with some areas having higher rates than others.