Are dairy products best avoided because they cause indigestion and bloating?

Answer

Milk and dairy products do not cause indigestion or bloating in everyone; such complaints mostly occur in people with lactose intolerance. Lactose, which occurs naturally in milk, is digested with the help of the enzyme lactase; in some people this enzyme is not produced in sufficient amounts for genetic reasons, so lactose is not fully broken down and symptoms such as gas, bloating and abdominal pain can appear. The Ministry notes that this is not a disease but a common genetic feature of digestion. Fermented dairy products such as yoghurt, kefir, ayran and especially hard cheeses contain markedly less lactose than milk and are usually tolerated more easily. People with lactose intolerance therefore do not need to give up dairy altogether; a balanced intake is possible by choosing lactose-reduced milk and low-lactose fermented products. If you have persistent digestive complaints, discuss them with your doctor.