[Liberty1970]

I suspect a lot of lactose intolerance is a transient thing. My father was diagnosed years ago but says he's better now. At the same time I was having a lot of gas from dairy products and chalked it up to the same thing, gradually cutting way back on them. I'd have cheese products, and occasional ice cream, but that was about it.

Then two months ago I broke my collarbone and ankle in an accident. I wonder if a better diet of dairy could have made a difference. After 6 weeks my collarbone still wasn't back in one piece, so I went all-out and have been gorging on milk, yogurt, cheese, ice cream - you name it. And you know what, I'm showing no sign of lactose intolerance. I figured I'd single-handedly cause global warming, but I've been fine with it all.

[Mr Fuji]

I think you have a valid point about it being a transient thing for some folks. I’ve read that some folks are capable of building up (and losing) their tolerance to lactose. Also, I think there are some folks who are probably misdiagnosed (self or professional) with lactose intolerance.

[heartwood]

I’m guessing with women lactose tolerance may vary with hormonal cycles and pregnancy.

Men have hormone shifts too. It’s just not so easy to figure it out.