3 tips for living with a lactose intolerance

While rarely dangerous, lactose intolerance is a common condition. Over a third of Americans and Europeans have lactose malabsorption — the condition that can lead to full-blown lactose intolerance. Even low estimates suggest that as much as 12% of Americans suffer from official lactose intolerance, as well.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance can range from bloating to cramps, nausea, gas, and even diarrhea. With so many people struggling with this common digestive concern, it’s important to understand the ways that they can manage it properly. Here are a few tips to help.

1. use a dietary supplement

Lactose intolerance comes from a lack of digestive enzymes. Specifically, the small intestine isn’t creating enough of the enzyme called lactase.

One easy way to solve this problem is by supplementing your diet with more enzymes. Intoleran has a range of digestive enzymes that help the body break down different troublesome foods.

Several of these are grouped under our lactase line of supplements. These address the digestive enzyme shortcomings of an individual with lactose intolerance. You can take them before a meal, incorporate them into baking, or even use our once a day capsules for comprehensive digestive support.

2. replace certain milk products

A common way to address a lactose intolerance is to reduce any milk that contains lactose from your diet.

The good news is that you don’t need to abandon milk entirely. On the contrary, Medline Plus offers a nifty list of milk products that can be easier for someone with a lactose intolerance to digest, including:

• Yogurt and other fermented products.
• Goat’s milk.
• Aged hard cheeses.
• Milk and milk products with a lactose-free label.

The site also points out that reducing milk from your diet can lead to a lack of key nutrients like vitamin D and calcium. Make sure to take supplements or eat foods that address these shortages.

3. try probiotics

The gut is an area of health that is getting more attention each and every year. Many connect gut health with other areas of the body, like the brain. Cultivating a healthy gut is important for everyone — especially someone with pre-existing digestive concerns.

Probiotics are a common supplement that can help maintain good gut health. They populate the gut with good bacteria that provides balance and wellness.

Mayo Clinic also points out that probiotics may be a way to address lactose intolerance. Consistently adding a fresh dose of active cultures into your gut is already a common way to address things like IBS. It may have the potential to help with digesting lactose, too.

enjoying life again (even with a lactose intolerance)

There’s no need to give up on food just because you have a food intolerance. There are many ways to tailor your diet while still enjoying the foods you love. In addition, supplements like digestive enzymes and probiotics can help your body function without holding back your culinary desires.

The important thing is that you take the time to consider your situation and find the best solutions for you. Use some or even all of the tips above to restore a delectable sense of peace to your daily life.