Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance (LI) refers to the body’s inability to digest lactose, the natural sugar found in milk and other dairy foods.
Lactose intolerance differs from a milk allergy, in which people suffer an immune reaction to milk protein. Dairy allergies are most commonly seen in young children and are often outgrown by 18 months–two years.
Suffering from lactose intolerance doesn’t have to mean avoiding dairy foods altogether. In fact, most people who experience lactose intolerance can still tolerate small amounts of milk. Aged, natural cheeses and yogurt are naturally low in lactose and can be great nutrient-rich dairy options in addition to lactose-free products.
Follow these guidelines
to continue to enjoy dairy
- Try It
Opt for lactose-free milk and milk products. They are real milk products, just without the lactose, taste great and contain the same nutrients as regular dairy foods.
- Sip It
Start with a small amount of milk daily and increase slowly over several days or weeks to tolerance.
- Stir It
Mix milk with other foods, such as soups and cereal; blend with fruit or drink milk with meals. Solid foods help slow digestion and allow the body more time to digest lactose.
- Slice It
Choose natural cheeses such as Cheddar and Swiss.
- Spoon It
Enjoy yogurt. Its live and active cultures help digest lactose.
Video Resources
Our Youtube Channel is a resource for all your questions about lactose intolerance and gut health.
