Tips For Overcoming Lactose Intolerance

Keeping Dairy in Your Diet

Lactose intolerance does not mean dairy intolerance. If you have symptoms of lactose intolerance you can enjoy the health benefits of dairy foods. Here are some helpful tips from the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council Director of Nutrition Education Jennifer Meyer, RD:

• Drink lactose-free milk, such as LACTAID® which offers all the nutrients of regular milk, but is easier to digest and tastes great. Another option is taking a lactase enzyme supplement prior to consuming dairy to help your body break down the lactose.
• Aged cheeses like Cheddar and Swiss are naturally low in lactose.
• Introduce milk and other dairy foods into your diet slowly. Start with small portions with meals or snacks and gradually work up to three servings a day.
• Remember to pair milk with meals or snacks. Doing this will help your body to handle the lactose more easily.
• Yogurt is good. Cultured dairy foods like yogurt contain friendly bacteria that help digest lactose.