How to Look for Lactose-Free Food
Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk products. Some people are unable to break down these sugars. These people are diagnosed with lactose intolerance. However, following a lactose-free diet will prevent the unpleasant symptoms that occur when a lactose-intolerant person consumes a milk product. You can find lactose-free foods in many grocery stores. Following a few simple steps will show you how to find these lactose-free foods.
Instructions
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Avoid the foods you know contain lactose, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, cream and butter. Some of these foods can be eaten as long as you also take a lactase enzyme, which lactose-intolerant people otherwise lack. Lactase breaks down lactose.
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Learn to read nutrition labels. According to Drugs.com, foods that contain lactose must say so on the product container. Foods such as butters, cheeses and milk have a note that says "contains lactose." If a food contains lactose, it typically is listed near the end of ingredients.
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Learn which lactose-free products can replace milk products that contain lactose. People with lactose intolerance may replace milk with soy or rice milk. Soy-based nutrition drinks are also acceptable replacements for milk.
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Consider what you eat before you eat it. For example, chicken may seem acceptable because chicken does not usually contain milk. However, if the chicken has been battered, the batter may contain lactose. In addition, foods such as hot chocolate packets and some packaged vegetables, bread mixes, and lunch meats may contain lactose.
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Begin to incorporate lactase enzymes into your diet. Nutritional supplements are widely available and do not require a prescription. You may not be able to completely supplement your diet to the point that you can regularly consume dairy products, but according to Vitamins-supplements.org, you may be able to eat hidden lactose found in nondairy products.
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Tips & Warnings
Read all food labels extremely carefully.
If you go out to eat, ask whether food contains any hidden dairy products.
Consult a physician if you believe you have lactose intolerance.
