Can flavoured milk be consumed by lactose-intolerant individuals?
Regular flavoured milk is made from milk, so it still contains lactose. Many people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts, and the NIDDK says lactose-free products are just as healthy as regular milk. Choose a flavoured milk labelled lactose-free, or use a lactase product, and pay attention to how you feel.
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In this article
Can lactose intolerant people drink flavoured milk?
Only if it is lactose-free or you can tolerate the amount. Chocolate, strawberry and other flavoured milks are normally made from regular cow’s milk, so they contain lactose just as plain milk does. Adding cocoa or flavoring does not remove it. We did not find an official source saying that flavoring lowers lactose, so do not assume it does.
How much lactose can people tolerate?
The NIDDK says research suggests many people with lactose intolerance can have about 12 grams of lactose, roughly 1 cup of milk, without symptoms or with only mild symptoms. Drinking small amounts at a time with meals may help. Individual tolerance varies a lot.
What are your options?
- Lactose-free flavoured milk: look for the words lactose-free on the carton. NIDDK says lactose-free and lactose-reduced products are just as healthy as regular milk and milk products.
- Lactase tablets or drops: these help digest the lactose in milk and milk products.
- Small servings with food: start with a half glass at a meal and see how you feel.
- Plant-based drinks: soy, oat and almond drinks contain no lactose, though they are not the same nutritionally. Choose calcium-fortified, unsweetened versions where you can.
What symptoms should you watch for?
Lactose intolerance can cause bloating, gas, abdominal cramps and diarrhea after dairy. If you get strong symptoms, stop and talk to a doctor or dietitian, because similar symptoms can have other causes, including a milk allergy, which is different from lactose intolerance and can be serious.
What about sugar?
Flavoured milk usually contains added sugar. In one test of milks served in schools, flavored milks had 6 to 16 grams of added sugars. Lactose-free versions can still be sweetened, so read the label.
Do you still need calcium?
Yes. NIDDK notes that avoiding all milk and milk products may leave you with less calcium and vitamin D than you need, so get them from other foods or fortified products and ask a doctor or dietitian about your needs.
People also ask
Does chocolate milk contain lactose?
Yes, unless it is labelled lactose-free, because it is made from regular milk.
How much lactose can I have?
The NIDDK says many people tolerate about 12 grams, roughly 1 cup of milk, with no or mild symptoms, but tolerance varies.
What can I drink instead?
Lactose-free milk, which NIDDK says is just as healthy as regular milk, or fortified plant-based drinks.
Sources
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