Main Differences Between Lactose Intolerance and IBS
IBS and lactose intolerance may share similar symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and gas. However, these conditions are unrelated. Lactose intolerance symptoms arise solely upon dairy consumption, unlike IBS, which isn’t linked to specific food triggers. IBS is classified as a functional gastrointestinal disorder, exhibiting less distinct symptoms. Individuals with IBS may experience constipation, diarrhea, or alternate between both conditions. In contrast to lactose intolerance, where symptoms stem from dairy intake, IBS triggers can vary and include specific foods, stress, or anxiety. While dairy can act as a trigger for some IBS sufferers, it doesn’t necessarily indicate lactose intolerance in those individuals. [3]
