What is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is the inability to fully digest lactose (milk sugar). It occurs due to a deficiency in lactase — the enzyme that breaks down lactose in the small intestine.

Frequency After Bariatric Surgery

Lactose intolerance can occur or worsen after sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass operations, as the intestinal flora and enzyme production change.

Symptoms

Bloating and fullness
Abdominal cramps
Diarrhea
Nausea

Symptoms typically occur 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy products.

Managing Lactose Intolerance After Surgery

Use lactose-free dairy products
Prefer hard cheese (contains little lactose)
Yogurt with probiotics is often well tolerated
Plant-based alternatives: almond milk, soy milk, oat milk
Take lactase tablets before consuming dairy products

Ensuring Calcium Supply

Dairy products are an important source of calcium. With lactose intolerance, use alternative sources:

Broccoli, kale, sesame
Calcium-rich mineral water
Calcium supplements (as recommended by a doctor)

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