By Ms. Susan M. Collins-Smith
If you experience bloating, cramping, gas, and diarrhea soon after consuming dairy products, your body may have problems breaking down lactose, the naturally occurring sugar in dairy products. When your body doesn’t produce enough lactase to break down this sugar, you end up with an aching tummy.
Even if you are lactose intolerant, you most likely don’t have to totally avoid milk and other dairy products. Dairy products are an important source of calcium and other nutrients, including protein and potassium.