Raisingkids.co.uk's paediatric dietitian, David Swain, talks us through the concerns surrounding gastric problems in infants.

Raisingkids member's query

My 2 yr-old daughter has been diagnosed as lactose intolerant, but was allowed to try dairy products under the guidance of a paediatric registrar. Subsequently, her poo has turned black. The doctor has said that it was internal bleeding caused by gastric irritation. I've been told not worry, but i can't help it. Can you put my mind at rest?

David's advice
Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase. The role of this enzyme is to help break down lactose into more simple sugars and thus aid its absorption. Babies can be born with a deficiency in this enzyme, but from your question it sounds as if this intolerance was probably caused by a secondary problem such as a stomach bug or infection that has caused damage to the lining of your daughter's bowel.

The treatment of this intolerance is to avoid having lactose in the diet for a period of time. Avoiding lactose allows the bowel time to heal and, usually, the lining of the bowel recovers in a few weeks. It sounds as if the doctor feels that it is now the right time to re-introduce dairy foods into her diet.

With regards to the fact that your daughter's poo is black, this would suggest that it contains some blood and the paediatric registrar's explanation sounds most probable. If the registrar is not too worried, then I think this should reassure you.

If you are not happy with the doctor's explanation or would like a second opinion, remember that the registrar is only one of a team and it may be reassuring to speak with the consultant who leads the team.

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