Lactose intolerance can form because of various conditions and natural aging. The cause of the intolerance will determine the type of lactose intolerant diet your doctor prescribes. Some conditions require a lactose-free diet, where you cannot ingest even the smallest amount of lactose; other times, a low-lactose diet is sufficient. Your doctor will determine which type of lactose-restricted diet you should implement. Do not modify your diet on your own without your doctor's knowledge.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive condition that many adults develop because of a decrease in the production of lactase. Lactose is a sugar found in milk that requires the lactase enzyme to digest it. If you lack lactase, the lactose will remain undigested in the digestive system, causing gastrointestinal symptoms and discomfort, such as diarrhea, stomach pain and gas. The most common cause of lactose intolerance is aging and isn't preventable. Other causes of lactose intolerance include digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease and Crohn's disease. Some of these conditions require a lactose-free diet.
Lactose-Free Diet
A lactose-free diet requires that you don't consume any lactose. This means you'll need to avoid consuming most dairy products and some medications. Unless a dairy product states that it's lactose-free, do not consume the product. Some medications contain lactose, so you need to inform your doctor or pharmacist of your condition. Lactose-free foods include fruits, vegetables, eggs, fresh meats and grains. You can also use milk substitutes, such as soy milk, rice or coconut milk, which are naturally lactose-free. Be aware that some products contain lactose that aren't obvious, such as deli meats, hot dogs and salad dressings.
Low-Lactose Diet
A low-lactose diet is a diet that allows some consumption of foods that don't contain much lactose. Certain dairy products are considered low-lactose because they either contain less lactose than other dairy products or they're consumed in small quantities. Common low-lactose foods include yogurt, aged cheeses, kefir, butter and sour cream. Most of these foods are made with live cultures that convert the lactose into lactic acid, reducing the amount of overall lactose.
Consideration
Lactase enzyme supplements are available to prevent lactose intolerant symptoms, when taken as directed, but shouldn't be used unless under a doctor's supervision. Lactase supplements replace the lactase required to digest the lactose and will reduce or prevent symptoms from developing.
