Lactose Free Food

As more individuals are diagnosed with lactose intolerance it has become important for these individuals to find healthy, lactose free, foods that will help all those diagnosed to maintain a balanced diet.  In addition to maintaining a healthy diet it is important that those suffering from lactose intolerance know which foods are lactose free and which are not. 

Accidentally eating food containing milk or milk protein can lead to illness and symptoms that are usually anywhere from moderate to severe.  These symptoms usually include extreme nausea that is often accompanied by vomiting, flatulence, painful stomach cramps, and more.

There are a variety of lactose freed food products available in grocery stores and in restaurants.  In order to recognize these foods it is important to train yourself to recognize foods that include any sort of milk protein as well as those foods that are naturally, or artificially lactose free. 

Fruits are naturally lactose free provided they have not been added to any cream or pudding product.  A great, lactose free, snack is fresh, fruit, many frozen fruits, most canned fruits, and all dried fruits.  Dried fruit can be great snack for children that are lactose intolerant and for busy adults as well.

Most vegetables are also a naturally lactose free food product.  Fresh, frozen, and even most canned vegetables are not only a great lactose free food; they also provide a good source of supplementary calcium.  Spinach, collard greens, and turnip greens are vegetables that all lactose intolerant (laktosefreies Essen) individuals should try to add to their diet whenever possible.  These greens help compensate for the vitamins and minerals that milk products usually provide.

When it comes to eating bread lactose intolerant individuals should always be cautious.  Most breads are made with milk and can bring on severe symptoms in people with extreme lactose intolerance.  Before you get ready to give up bread all together remember that there are many breads that are considered “safe”. 

All water based breads (bread prepared with water instead of milk) can be consumed by someone with lactose intolerance.  Breads that are usually water based include Italian and Rye bread along with most traditional Jewish breads.

Grains in general are a safe bet for those suffering from lactose intolerance and many grain products such as cereal are fortified with extra calcium and vitamins which can help compensate for the lack of milk in a persons diet. 

Rice cakes and graham crackers are a safe snack and desert along with cooked or dry cereal.  It is important that when eating cooked or dry cereal that those with lactose intolerance only use lactose free milk.  Other plain grains such as oats, barley, and cornmeal are also safe.

Most meats are also safe for consumption as long as they have not been breaded.  Poultry, lamb, plain beef, pork, fish, and shellfish are all perfectly safe.  For those that do not include meat products in their diet many protein alternatives exist that are lactose free. 

Peanut butter, beans and lentils are all great sources of protein that are completely safe for all lactose intolerant individuals.