What to know about lactose-free dairy and its benefits
Lactose intolerance affects nearly 1 in 5 Canadians 1, so there is a great chance that you know someone who lives with it or experience it yourself. While lactose sensitivity can make consuming dairy uncomfortable, it does not mean dairy needs to be eliminated entirely from your diet.
The good news is that you can continue enjoying the nutrients and familiar taste of your favourite milk and dairy products thanks to a range of lactose-free options. By choosing lactose-free milk and dairy alternatives, it is possible to enjoy dairy again without digestive discomfort. Read on to learn how lactose-free choices can easily fit into everyday routines.
What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body has difficulty digesting lactose, the natural sugar found in milk and other dairy products such as cream and cheese. To properly digest lactose, the digestive system normally produces an enzyme called lactase.
Some people’s bodies do not produce enough lactase. When this happens, undigested lactose can lead to digestive discomfort commonly associated with lactose intolerance.
Lactose-free milk and dairy products are designed to help manage this issue. The added lactase enzyme breaks down lactose before consumption, making dairy easier to digest.
The Key? Substitution
Whether you swap Neilson Lactose Free Milk for regular milk or use lactose-free cheese in your cooking, lactose-free dairy products provide the same benefits as regular milk, along with the familiar great taste and texture people expect. Because lactose-free milk behaves similarly in baking and cooking, it works well in recipes where consistency and flavour matter.
Lactose-free milk and cream blend well with coffee and are easy to include in baked goods, soups, and pasta dishes. Many familiar meals can be prepared using lactose-free options, including fruit smoothies, grilled cheese sandwiches, and creamy main dishes. With so many possibilities, enjoying dairy without discomfort becomes a natural part of everyday cooking.
