Is there a relationship between Giardia and lactose intolerance? This is a question that many with lactose intolerants have often pondered. I used to be able to eat dairy products, but now when I eat dairy I feel bloated and have general stomach upset. Did my bout with Giardia cause this? Well you just might be on to something. While there is no definitively proven link, there is evidence that Giardia and lactose intolerance are inter-related. Before we examine their relationship let’s first define Giardia.
Giardia 101
Giardia is a microscopic parasite about the size of a red blood cell that resides in the intestinal tract. This parasite can be transmitted via infected water sources, fecal-oral transmission, person-to-person contact, and food infected by food handlers. It is the most common flagellate found in the human digestive tract and it is very contagious, though usually not fatal (McGill University report). Common symptoms are abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and sometimes fever. Some infected persons have symptoms that are gradual and recurrent or resistant.
It is best to seek professional help if you feel you might have Giardia. The best way to diagnose this parasite is through microscopic examination of the stool.
A Possible Cause
It is the commonality and persistence of symptoms which Giardia and lactose intolerance share that have people wondering do they have lactose intolerance. After your Giardia has been treated and if symptoms still persist you might just have lactose intolerance. With symptoms that persist after treatment and a clean bill of health it is worthwhile to examine lactose intolerance as a probable cause of your symptoms. The possible cause might be the damage that the infection causes to the lining of the small intestine, even after the infection is gone. Once you have damage to your small intestines, this can lead to difficulties processing lactose. A reduction in the production of lactase can the result in lactose mal-absorption which in turn can cause diarrhea and abdominal bloating.
Despite the cause of your lactose intolerance, you can still enjoy foods that contain lactose with proper care or with lifestyle modifications. As always, frequent hand washing and consulting your physician are among the best policies when it comes to your health.