People with lactose intolerance can have symptoms after consuming dairy products or prepared foods containing dairy. However, some dairy foods have less lactose than others. The lactose tolerance diet avoids lactose, the sugar found in milk, by eliminating or limiting foods that contain it. While many realize milk and dairy have lactose, it also hides in baked goods, candies, cake mixes, cold cuts, and more. This post explores the various foods to avoid with lactose intolerance.
Lactose Intolerance - Foods to Avoid
Though lactose is mainly found in dairy products like yoghurt, cheese, and butter, it is also an ingredient in many other processed foods.
Some foods to avoid with lactose intolerance are:
Dairy Products
Some dairy foods contain small amounts of lactose that people with lactose intolerance can tolerate, like butter, certain yoghurts with digestive bacteria, kefir, aged cheeses, skyr, and heavy cream. However, those with a milk allergy or avoiding lactose for other reasons may want to avoid all dairy. Products to typically avoid include all milk varieties and soft cheeses like:
- Regular yoghurt
- Cream cheese and ricotta
- Ice cream
- Sour cream
- Buttermilk
- Whipped cream
Prepared Foods
Lactose might be hidden in many prepared items too, not just dairy. Check labels for added milk ingredients. Foods that may contain lactose include:
- Convenience meals
- Cream-based sauces/soups/gravies
- Breads
- Instant potato mixes
- Baked goods and desserts
- Candies like chocolate, waffle/pancake/muffin mixes
- Breakfast cereals
- Creamed vegetables
- Processed meats like hot dogs and bacon
- Salad dressings
- Instant coffee
- Flavoured potato chips.
Identifying Hidden Lactose
Checking labels is useful for spotting lactose in foods when you’re unsure. Look for added milk products or dairy ingredients like milk solids, milk sugar, or whey. Note that despite similar names, lactate, lactic acid, and lactalbumin do not contain lactose.
Conclusion
People with lactose intolerance can experience symptoms after eating foods containing lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. While being lactose-intolerant can lead to additional medical costs, health insurance can help you save money in several ways. It may cover part or all of the costs of diagnostic tests to confirm lactose intolerance and often covers the cost of prescribed medications . While dairy is the primary source, lactose also hides in many prepared and processed foods like baked goods, candy, cereals, and convenience meals. It’s important to check labels, as ingredients like milk solids, whey, and milk sugar indicate lactose. Being aware of the many potential sources of hidden lactose makes it easier to manage a dairy-free diet, which is friendly to lactose intolerance.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.