The very basic premise to the lactose-free diet is to avoid any type of dairy product. Some people's bodies do not make enough lactase, the enzyme that breaks down milk sugar (lactose). As many as 20% of white and the majority of non-white adults are lactose intolerant. Upon eating foods containing lactose, these people may experience diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal cramps.
The symptoms of lactose intolerance can mimic those of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and people who have both IBD and lactose intolerance may find that their symptoms worsen significantly after eating foods containing lactose.
There is good news for the lactose intolerant. There are several products sold commercially today that, when eaten before or with dairy, reduce the side effects of lactose intolerance. There are also lactose-free cheeses, milks, and ice cream. The lactose-free diet may be recommended when someone is tested and found to be lactose intolerant.
Lactose intolerance is not the same as an allergy to milk. A milk allergy is the most common type of allergy in children, and is usually outgrown by adulthood.
Lactose Free Substitutions:
- 100% Lactose-free milk
- Non-Dairy creamers
- Rice milk
- Soy milk
Foods to Avoid:
- Cheeses
- Cream
- Ice Cream
- Milk
- Foods containing any of the above
