CAN I EAT DAIRY IF I AM LACTOSE INTOLERANT?

You do not have to drink milk to be healthy; however, for some people, dairy is a dietary or culture preference. Fortunately, if you are lactose intolerant you can still consume moderate amounts of dairy with the help of a lactase enzyme. 

Lactase enzymes (like Lactaid) help break down the lactose sugar found in milk. In individuals with lactose intolerance, there is not enough of the lactase enzyme in the body to digest the lactose sugar. When the lactose is not properly digested, it can cause bloating, gas, pain and diarrhea. 

If a lactase enzyme is taken when eating dairy products (like cheese, butter, ice-cream, etc.), then the side effects of your lactose intolerance will be decreased. Of course, it is important to be mindful of the situation. One slice of pizza or a scoop of ice cream can likely be well tolerated with a lactase enzyme, but a whole pizza or an entire pint of ice-cream may overwhelm your body more than what the enzyme can manage.  

Watch out for hidden sources of lactose (like hotdogs or medicines which use lactose as a filler). Also be sure to check labels for dairy containing ingredients and take the enzyme as a precautionary measure if you suspect that the food item might upset your system. 

Some yogurts and aged cheeses have very little lactose in them and may be tolerated in those with less severe lactose intolerance. If you find that these foods still bother you, that's ok! Your body is unique to you and it is important to know and accept your limits.