Lactose intolerance prevents digestion of lactose, the sugar primarily found in milk and dairy products. While lactose intolerance is not dangerous, its symptoms can be distressing, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Diarrhea is the most common troubling symptom of lactose intolerance. Symptoms vary among individuals from very mild to severe. In addition to diarrhea, those with lactose intolerance may experience bloating and flatulence. Diet can help you control these symptoms, but consult your physician before using dietary changes to treat a serious health condition.
Managing Symptoms
Lactose intolerance requires treatment if your symptoms are troublesome. Reducing your intake of foods that cause symptoms should be part of the treatment. This does not necessarily mean that you need to eliminate all milk products, but will require some trial and error. Gradually eliminate milk and dairy foods individually, and see if symptoms let up after you eliminate each one. According to "Med/Surg Nursing," most people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small to moderate intake, up to 0.5 cup at a time, of lactose-containing foods or liquids.
High-Lactose Foods
High-lactose foods that may require limitation include milk; cheeses such as mozzarella, cottage cheese and cream cheese; cream soups; eggs; any dessert made with milk; and breaded or creamed meats. Chip dips, sour cream and alfredo sauces are high-lactose foods that may increase symptoms. Instant hot cereals, creamed or buttered vegetables and pizza should be limited. You should completely avoid only those foods that cause symptoms.
Low-Lactose Foods
Consider low-lactose or lactose-free foods as regular parts of your meal plan. Include soy milk or Lactaid treated milk; non-dairy creamers; rice or spaghetti; graham crackers; fresh fruits and vegetables; broth-based soups; and plain meat, fish and poultry. Condiments such as mustard, ketchup, vinegar and all herbs and spices usually don't cause trouble. Aged cheeses like muenster, Gouda, brie and chedder can be included in a lactose-control meal plan.
Alternative Approaches
Dietary restrictions are not the only solution for lactose intolerance. Supplemental lactase enzyme tablets or liquid may be used in conjunction with diet planning. Regular yogurt consumption can help you control symptoms by supplementing intestinal lactase with the live and active micorflora in the yogurt. Lactose reduced milk and foods are available at grocery stores. A lactose-restricted diet may not provide sufficient intake of essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorous, riboflavin and vitamin D, so ask your doctor if you need to take supplements.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Lactose Intolerance
- "MEDSURG Nursing"; Lactose Intolerance: A Nursing Perspective; K. Marchiondo: January / February 2009
