Milk exchanges for lactose intolerant members

[LindaS.Wilson]

Hi there,

Do you have any suggestions for getting in milk exchanges when you are lactose intolerant and hate everything that even resembles milk?:(

Thanks for any suggestions!
Linda

[ErinDuBroc_RD]

Hi Linda,

Many times lactaid or dairy products with added lactase enzyme are tolerable for those with lactose intolerance. however, if this does not work encourage your member to try soymilk in exchange for cow's milk. The calcium content in soymilk is very similar to cow's milk (around 300mg per cup).

Does he/she eat any milk-based products at all (yogurt, cheese)? If so, these will suffice for those exchanges. If not, encourage soy-versions of these products or for them to obtain calcium from non-dairy sources (email me and i'll send you a list) and/or a calcium supplement.

As far as calories and other nutrients go, the number of exchanges allotted for dairy in their plan should not be dismissed, but spread over the other groups. This may take some trial and error, but since most people only need 2-3 servings of dairy a day, it's not much to work with. Add 1 more veggie and 1 more grain, or 1 more fruit and 1 more meat, etc.

Hope this helps!

erin.dubroc@firstplace.org

[RebaR]

Thanks Erin for the information on this. Once in a while it comes up in group, more on the outlook board than in my local group. I'll have to remember this info the next time someone asks! There is someone in my outlook group right now that has this question. Is it ok if I copy your reply and post it there? Thanks!

Reba/AL