Around the age of 18, I became one of the many people who are lactose intolerant. When I say many people, I mean many. About 70% of the world’s population is lactose intolerant. Many people have no idea that the symptoms they are experiencing are signs of lactose intolerance. Even worse, many people are misdiagnosed as having serious bowel problems. People who are lactose intolerant will experience abdominal pain after consuming dairy products. Others will also experience gas and bloating, along with other unpleasant stomach problems. If you’re lactose intolerant, you may avoid some of your favorite foods because of your condition. Luckily, you can still enjoy dairy products if you follow these tips.
Enjoy Dairy Products While Being Lactose Intolerant #1: Eat Yogurt
For some people who are lactose intolerant, yogurt may be the answer. The live bacteria cultures found in yogurt have been known to aid in the digestion of lactose. Try by adding a serving of yogurt to your breakfast. If this seems to help, try adding another serving at lunch. Then add small servings of other dairy products to your diet. The level of lactose intolerance varies from person to person, so this may not be a cure for you, but it never hurts to try.
Enjoy Dairy Products While Being Lactose Intolerant #2: Look for Soy Products
If you miss dairy products, try soy products. Products like soy milk have come a long way and may be the answer for you. Other soy products include tofu ice cream and cheese. Try some of these products in place of your favorite dairy products. The taste may be hard to get used to, but these are great for people who are lactose intolerant.
Enjoy Dairy Products While Being Lactose Intolerant #3: Choose Goat Milk
If you truly want dairy products, try products made with goat’s milk. Many small dairies are now producing goat’s milk ice cream, cheese, and even butter. These products can safely be enjoyed by many people who are lactose intolerant. This is because the amount of lactose and protein found in goat’s milk is different than cow’s milk.
Enjoy Dairy Products While Being Lactose Intolerant #4: Moderation
If you’re like me and simply can’t stop eating dairy products made with cow’s milk, there are a couple things you can do. First of all, try eating or drinking smaller portions. This will help to some degree by limiting the amount of lactose you take into your body each day. It also helps to enjoy dairy product with other foods.
Enjoy Dairy Products While Being Lactose Intolerant #5: Over the Counter Medications
Another way to enjoy dairy products made with cow’s milk, while being lactose intolerant, is to take an over the counter medication. There are pills that will lessen the effects that dairy products have on your body. You must remember to take these pills as directed for them to work properly. This is a great option if you don’t want to change your diet at all.
Please remember that these suggestions will help each person who is lactose intolerant differently, based on the level of intolerance they have. If you are extremely lactose intolerant, you may want to see your doctor for other remedies that may be better suited to your level of intolerance.
