Question
Recently, some parents have reported that their children have developed symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal distension. Although the diarrhea has been somewhat alleviated after hospital treatment, the issues of abdominal distension and poor digestion have not been completely resolved. The parents inquire whether it is appropriate to give their children lactase to improve these symptoms.
Answer
Lactase is a traditional probiotic preparation primarily used to treat symptoms such as indigestion, abnormal fermentation in the intestines, diarrhea in children, and green stools in children. For children with indigestion, the medication can be taken orally before meals. However, the fundamental solution to children’s indigestion lies in improving dietary habits, as children’s digestive systems are not yet fully developed and should avoid consuming greasy foods that are difficult to digest. Additionally, digestion can be promoted by drinking yogurt or eating hawthorn slices. Before considering the use of lactase, it is recommended that parents consult with a professional doctor and closely monitor their child’s symptom changes.