How to Feed a Lactose Intolerant Toddler
A lactose intolerant person does not produce enough lactase, an enzyme in the small intestine, to break down lactose (sugar) found in dairy products. The undigested lactose leads to excess gas, bloating, stomach cramps and sometimes diarrhea. Here are some ways to feed a lactose intolerant toddler.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Diagnose if the toddler is lactose intolerant by watching how the toddler reacts 1/2 to two hours after consuming dairy products. Since it is difficult for toddlers to communicate symptoms such as nausea, cramping, bloating and gas, look for painful crying or sudden crying that interrupts naps or playtime.
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Get an official diagnosis from a family doctor or pediatrician. The doctor will review the toddler's family medical history and perform a physical examination possibly including a hydrogen breath test.
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3
Feed the toddler a small amount of dairy at a time or in combination with other nondairy foods if lactose intolerance is confirmed. Serve cheese and yogurt which have less lactose than milk with pasta, bread or crackers.
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Substitute lactose free products, soy products or rice products for full dairy versions. Many of these such as Lactaid lactose-free milk or Silk soy milk are calcium fortified.
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Read food labels to watch for lactose. It is often added to foods and is listed under different names such as dried milk, milk solids and whey.
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Talk to a registered dietitian or nutritionist to gain ideas on how to feed the toddler a well balanced diet rich in calcium but virtually lactose free. Check the American Dietetics Association for nutrition specialists.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep a food diary of what the toddler eats and how he reacts when trying to diagnose.
Keep gas medicine such as Mylicon on hand for times when the toddler eats more dairy than her body can handle.
Doctors can also conduct an endoscopic procedure to test for lactose intolerance, but this is too invasive to use on toddlers.
