Question:
How long does lactose intolerence last after gastric bypass?

I'm 9 months post op with a proximal gastric bypass, and I'm still lactose intolerant. I did not have this problem before surgery, but now I can't even tolerate plain yogurt and cheese. Is this a permanent situation, or will it get better with time? Thanks.    — [Anonymous] (posted on June 21, 2001)

June 21, 2001
I'm almost 12 mos post-op and cannot do dairy at all. I miss it alot but the nausea and sickness I get from it is so aweful...I don't even dare try it anymore.
   — Tracey D.

June 21, 2001
What about using Lactaid pills? Would taking one of those before eating dairy help solve the problem? I dumped the other night when I made a sugar free milk shake (1 c. SF ice cream, 1 c. skim milk, 1 scoop protein powder). . .I am almost 5 months out. . .do you suppose I too have become lactose intolerant? Oops, didn't mean to post a question to your question. Sorry.
   — Doris R.

June 21, 2001
I'm 18 months postop and have never had problem with lactose intolerance.
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 21, 2001
My daughter and I have had RNY surgery. She developed lactose intolerance at 3 weeks post-op, but I have never had any problems with dairy products at all. Our surgeon said that approximately 30% of RNY patients will become lactose intolerant. Some will regain their ability to re-introduce dairy into their diet after a few months; some will remain lactose intolerant indefinitely. My daughter does great with Lactaid milk and Lactaid tablets before meals, but has said that giving up dairy products was a small trade-off for the 200 lbs. she has lost and the wonderful life she has now :-) Good luck!
   — Diana T.