What dietary modification helps manage lactose intolerance in children?

Reducing or eliminating lactose-containing products from the diet is the most effective dietary modification for managing lactose intolerance in children. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks enough lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, which is found in milk and dairy products. When lactose is not properly digested, it can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

By avoiding lactose-containing foods, parents can help reduce or eliminate these uncomfortable symptoms, allowing children to enjoy a better quality of life. Some children may still tolerate small amounts of lactose, so they might not need to eliminate it entirely. However, clearly identifying and avoiding high-lactose foods is essential in managing the condition.

Other strategies can be beneficial, such as substituting cow's milk with lactose-free alternatives, but the priority is addressing the intake of lactose itself.