Is your baby’s poop indicating lactose intolerance?

You could be surprised at times by what you discover inside your baby’s nappy. Different hues, textures, and even blood or mucous. The good news is that most of the poop you see is quite normal. However, there are a few instances where you should be concerned. Take, for example, lactose intolerance. Lactose is a type of sugar found in both breast milk and formula.

While it is extremely unusual, some babies are lactose intolerant because their bodies lack the enzyme (lactase) that digests it. Watery, loose stools and other digestive difficulties are common symptoms of lactose intolerance. However, loose stools can sometimes indicate other issues.

So, how can you determine the difference between lactose intolerance and other problems? Let’s take a closer look.

How common is lactose intolerance?

It is critical to remember that lactose intolerance is extremely rare in children aged two to three years old. In reality, it is more common in teens and adults when it is recognised as primary lactose intolerance. Primary lactase insufficiency affects up to 70% of the population and is more common in people of Asian, African, Hispanic, American Indian, Mediterranean, and Southern European ancestry. Not everyone with lactase deficiency will have symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance

Signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance in infants usually appear within a few days of birth. If your infant has been OK for several months and then gets these symptoms, the cause is unlikely to be lactose intolerance. Among the symptoms are:

• Bloating, gas, and nausea
• Malnutrition/failure to thrive
• Abdominal discomfort and cramps

Because babies are unable to communicate what is hurting them, you may find your baby is fussy or screaming after feedings. Their stomach could be large or firm. The contents of their nappy are often the most obvious clue. Your baby’s stools may be runny and loose. They may appear foamy as well. They can even be acidic, which means your baby’s skin may get inflamed, resulting in nappy rash.

Lactose intolerance treatment

Before changing formulas or attempting other therapies, it is critical to consult with your doctor to ensure that you have an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend a lactose-free formula. When your infant is old enough to take solid foods, try focusing on calcium-rich foods to help fill the nutritional gap. These include dishes such as:

• Beans
• Broccoli
• Calcium-fortified soy milk or other milk alternatives
• Breads enriched with calcium
• Spinach