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Lactose intolerance in children with protein-energy malnutrition

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Abstract

Lactose tolerance test was performed on 40 children suffering from protein energy malnutrition (PEM) and 10 control children. Lactose intolerance was documented in two cases of kwashiorkor by a flat curve, diarrhea, low stool pH, and presence of reducing substances in the stools. Of 38 marasmic children, four had a maximum blood sugar rise below 20–30 mg/dl, but they did not exhibit any other signs of intolerance. It is suggested that marasmic infants can adequately hydrolyse lactose in milk.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Home Sciences, Maharani College, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan

    Mira Verma M.Sc. & Shakuntala Saxena M.D., D.C.H.

  2. Department of Pediatric Medicine, S.M.S. Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan

    Mira Verma M.Sc. & Shakuntala Saxena M.D., D.C.H.

Authors
  1. Mira Verma M.Sc.
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  2. Shakuntala Saxena M.D., D.C.H.
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Verma, M., Saxena, S. Lactose intolerance in children with protein-energy malnutrition. Indian J Pediatr 47, 273–277 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02831314

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