Published: July 24, 2009
As we get older, we gradually start producing less of the enzyme (lactase) needed to digest the sugar (lactose) found in milk and other dairy products. This means that undigested lactose collects in the intestine, often causing gas, cramps, and diarrhea- otherwise known as lactose intolerance.
But there are ways to get the benefits of dairy foods without the problems mentioned above- drink lactose free milk which has about 70% of the lactose removed. You can also buy reduced lactose or lactose-free cheeses. One of my favorites is Lisanatti’s Almond Cheddar Style cheese, one of the best cheddar cheese alternative products on the market.
Yogurt is another great food for people with lactose intolerance. Although live-culture yogurt does contain lactose, it also has beneficial probiotics, or bacteria, that help break it down into lactic acid, which is easier to digest. In addition, lactose is easier for the body to digest when you have it in combination with other foods.
Giving up dairy foods means that you risk losing out on their greatest nutritional benefit—calcium, which you cant’ do without. If you find it too uncomfortable to have dairy foods, you’ll want to find other ways to get more calcium in your diet. One way to do so is to have a glass of calcium fortified orange juice which provides the calcium equivalent of a glass of milk.
Maria’s Top Pick Of Lactose Free Milks- Organic Valley Farms. Tastes rich and creamy, just like regular milk!
Visit Maria at Maria's website
