Lactose-free milk is one product you typically see alongside the regular milk in your market's refrigerated section. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, lactose-free milk and other dairy products should contain no natural milk sugar. Tasting no different than regular milk, lactose free milk is better for people with lactose intolerance, an uncomfortable condition that causes diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating and gas.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance should not be confused with milk allergies. People with lactose intolerance don't produce enough of an enzyme called lactase in the small intestine, according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH. Lactose intolerance isn't life-threatening, but it can cause extreme discomfort; symptoms usually start around 30 minutes after consuming milk or a milk product with lactose. Citing information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the FDA states that between 30 to 50 million Americans have lactose intolerance. Although lactose intolerance can strike at any stage of life, it's usually seen in Caucasian children over the age of 5, says the NIH; African-American children may exhibit symptoms as young as age 2.
Lactose Free Benefits
Lactose-free milk is better for people with lactose intolerance, as it contains none of the natural sugars that the body cannot process and absorb. Also, lactose-free milk is often fortified with additional nutrients to provide the same health benefits as regular milk, says the FDA. The FDA doesn't provide a specific definition for milk and milk products that are "lactose-free" or "lactose-reduced;" it's up to the food manufacturer to make sure that the labeling information is accurate and truthful. "Lactose-reduced" milk and milk products will still contain some lactose, cautions the FDA.
Safer Dairy
Lactose intolerance can cause symptoms that are mild or severe. Taking regular milk out of the diet can completely alleviate symptoms; however, the NIH states that people who produce some lactase can drink small amounts of regular milk -- between 2 to 4 ozs. Other milk products are easier on the tummy as well, including buttermilk, cheese, yogurt, goat's milk, ice cream and lactase-treated milk. Soy and rice milk are nondairy options for children and adults with lactose intolerance.
Cautions
Lactose-free milk is not safe for people with milk allergies, cautions the FDA. People with allergies to dairy products are sensitive to milk proteins, which are still present in lactose-free milk.
Other Tips
If you suspect that lactose-free milk and other dairy products may make it a little easier on your digestive system, talk to your doctor, especially if you experience symptoms associated with lactose intolerance. According to MayoClinic.com, diagnostic tests such as a lactose intolerance test or those that measure the hydrogen in your breath or the acidity of your stool can confirm a diagnosis.
Member Comments