Is Dairy Making You Sick? How to Manage Lactose Intolerance
Do you get bloated, gassy, or nauseous after consuming milk or cheese? You may be lactose intolerant. Oftentimes, people have trouble digesting dairy, but don’t worry the good news is you don’t have to eliminate all your beloved foods! Let’s take a look at what lactose intolerance is and how you can still enjoy meals without pain.
What is Lactose Intolerance? How to Manage Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance occurs when your body is unable to digest lactose, the milk sugar in milk and milk products. This is when you don’t have enough lactase, the enzyme that digests lactose. Symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
What Can You Do About It?
You don’t need to eliminate dairy altogether! Make the following easy adjustments:
- Opt for Lactose-Free Alternatives
Most stores carry lactose-free milk, cheese, and yogurt. They have the same taste but digest more easily.
- Experiment with Dairy Substitutes
Plant milks such as almond, oat, or soy milk are excellent choices. You may also discover vegan cheeses and yogurts made from nuts or coconut.
- Take Lactase Enzyme Supplements
Lactase over-the-counter pills (such as Lactaid) can aid your digestion when you want to have ice cream or pizza.
- Consume Fermented Dairy
Yogurt and kefir have natural probiotics that can digest lactose more effectively than regular milk.
Conclusion: If dairy gets you sick, don’t worry lactose intolerance is quite prevalent. The trick is finding alternatives that suit you. Whether it’s going lactose-free, plant-based foods, or enzyme supplements, you can still have mouthwatering foods without the pain.
NOTE: – IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ALL DATA SHARED HERE ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
