

In addition to these over-the-counter enzyme tablets, you can also try a low-lactose or completely lactose-free diet. However, lactase enzyme tablets are available to help break down lactose, allowing people to eat more dairy products. Lactose intolerance can make consuming dairy difficult. Always check the label and eat in moderation. While milk chocolate contains less lactose than milk or cream, it still contains dairy in high amounts. In addition to some kinds of cheeses, some people with lactose intolerance may be able to eat yogurt in moderation, as the lactose has been partly broken down. Products made from cream - like ice cream, cream cheese, custard, or butter - should be avoided due to the high levels of lactose. Hard cheeses such as parmesan, Swiss, and cheddar may be easier to digest because most of the lactose is eliminated while the cheese is being made. Milk is also an ingredient in many other foods like margarine, shortening, baked goods, salad dressing, creamers, and more.Ĭheese also contains a high amount of lactose. Whole milk contains about 13 grams of lactose per 1-cup serving, while skim milk can contain between 12 and 13 grams. Milk contains the most lactose out of all the dairy products. However, keep in mind that other products may also contain these foods as ingredients and should also be avoided if you are lactose intolerant. The following foods contain the highest levels of lactose. Most dairy products contain lactose, but some contain more than others. It can also increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The severity of the symptoms depends on the level of lactose intolerance, as well as how much dairy was consumed.Įven for those with no sensitivity to dairy, cutting down on dairy can offer certain health benefits." Studies estimate that it affects 5-17 %of Europeans, 44 % of Americans, and 60-80 % of Africans and Asians.įor those sensitive to lactose, dairy products can cause severe digestive problems, including: Difficulty digesting lactose affects different populations in varying ways. Lactose intolerance is caused by a decrease in lactase production, which makes it difficult for the lactose to become properly absorbed.

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However, those with lactose intolerance - whether mild or severe - should consider a low lactose or lactose - free diet to reduce symptoms. Including dairy in your diet can support your bone health and reduce the risk of obesity.

Why You Should Avoid Lactoseįor those with no sensitivity to lactose, dairy is a highly nutritious source of protein, calcium, and other vitamins like A and D. These symptoms can lead to diarrhea, stomach pain, and more. Some can digest low-lactose diets, while others experience digestive symptoms after eating any amount of dairy. However, some people lose the ability to digest lactose over time.Īround 75% of the world’s population has some form of lactose intolerance. At an early age, bodies are able to break down and digest lactose from breastmilk using an enzyme called lactase. Lactose is a sugar found primarily in milk and other dairy products.
