ST. LOUIS – Do you love the taste of dairy foods, but occasionally feel discomfort after eating them?
This discomfort can often result from lactose intolerance, a type of food sensitivity that is not an allergy or disease. The condition arises from not producing enough lactase enzyme.
This enzyme effectively breaks down lactose, the natural sugar in milk and dairy foods, into simpler, easier-to-digest sugars. Lactose-free milk and dairy foods are making waves as the perfect solution to lactose intolerance. They deliver all the taste and nutrition of regular dairy foods, without the digestive upset.
“Lactose-free milk and dairy foods allow individuals to keep dairy in their diet. This means no restrictions and no elimination of foods or favorite recipes,” said Jessica Kassel, a registered dietitian with St. Louis District Dairy Council.
Let’s clear up one of the biggest myths about lactose-free milk.
Lactose-free milk is real milk.
It comes from a cow, just like the milk you grew up with. The only difference? Lactose, the naturally occurring sugar found in milk, has been broken down into simpler sugars for easier digestion. There’s no imitation here. No substitutes. Just fresh, wholesome milk with the same creamy texture and taste, minus the lactose.
SMOOth Digestion, No Compromise
Lactose-free milk is designed for those who have difficulty digesting lactose. Manufacturers add the lactase enzyme to milk to break down the lactose, which will prevent the common symptoms of lactose intolerance, such as cramping, bloating and gas.
“Whether you’re pouring lactose-free milk over your morning cereal, blending it into a smoothie, or enjoying it by the glass, you can do so without hesitation.” Kassel said. “Lactose-free dairy delivers smooth, gentle digestion. You can enjoy your favorite dairy foods with confidence.”
Same Nutrition. Same Benefits.
Are you worried you’ll miss out on nutrients by going lactose-free? Don’t be.
“Lactose-free milk has the same 13 essential nutrients as regular milk, including high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin D, potassium, B vitamins and more,” Kassel said. “You’re getting all the benefits of regular dairy, delivered in a way that’s easier on your digestive system.
Bottom line:
Lactose-free milk is real dairy, real nutritious, and really easy to love. So, if you or someone you know is lactose intolerant, give it a try! Your body will thank you.
For more information on lactose intolerance and tips to work more dairy foods into your eating plan, visit www.stldairycouncil.org and download our Lactose Intolerance Resource.
You can also contact Jessica Kassel at 314-835-9668 or jkassel@stldairycouncil.org.
Follow St. Louis District Dairy Council on Facebook and Instagram at STLDairyCouncil.
The St. Louis District Dairy Council (SLDDC) is a nonprofit nutrition education organization funded by local dairy farmers. Since 1932, SLDDC has served 131 counties in central/southern Illinois and eastern Missouri as the go-to educational resource and advocate for the role of dairy foods as part of a healthful diet. As the Nutrition Education People, we are proud to spread knowledge to local communities, bridging the gap between local dairy farmers and consumers.
Lactose-Free Alfredo Sauce
Made with lactose-free milk and cheese and seasoned with garlic and chicken broth, this lactose-free alfredo sauce recipe delivers all the cheesy creaminess you crave with no digestive discomfort.
Recipe Total Time: 30 min
Servings:
6 Servings
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
4 tablespoons flour
1 cup lactose-free whole milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Place olive oil and butter in a large saucepan. Turn the burner to medium-low and melt the butter.
- Add garlic and simmer for about a minute.
- Stir in the flour until fully incorporated and cook the roux for a minute.
- Whisk in lactose-free whole milk and chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- When the sauce starts to thicken, stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
- Toss the lactose-free alfredo sauce with pasta and serve.