10 Milky Mysteries Unveiled: The Sneaky Suspects Behind Lactose Intolerance

8. Gastric Bypass Surgery and Other Abdominal Surgeries

Major abdominal surgeries, particularly gastric bypass procedures, can surprisingly trigger or worsen lactose intolerance. These surgeries alter the normal digestive pathway, sometimes bypassing sections of the small intestine where lactase is produced or where lactose is typically digested. This can lead to rapid transit of food to the colon, causing undigested lactose to ferment. Patients undergoing such procedures should be aware of this potential side effect and discuss dietary adjustments with their medical team to manage symptoms effectively post-surgery.