Can lactose intolerant individuals consume low-fat milk?
The NIDDK says lactose is in all milk and milk products, so low-fat or skim milk is not lactose-free. NIDDK says many people could have 12 grams of lactose, about 1 cup of milk, with no or mild symptoms, and that lactose-free milk may help. Ask a doctor if unsure.
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In this article
Does low-fat or skim milk have lactose?
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) states: “Lactose is in all milk and milk products.” The page we read does not discuss low-fat or skim milk specifically, and we found no official source saying that removing fat removes lactose. Treat low-fat and skim milk like other milk.
How much milk can a lactose intolerant person drink?
NIDDK says research suggests many people could have 12 grams of lactose, about 1 cup of milk, with no symptoms or only mild ones. It adds that small amounts taken with meals may be easier to tolerate. Tolerance varies from person to person.
What are the alternatives?
- Lactose-free and lactose-reduced milk: NIDDK says these may help lower the lactose in your diet and are just as healthy as regular milk products.
- Yogurt and hard cheeses: NIDDK says these are lower in lactose than other milk products.
Why does it matter for calcium?
NIDDK notes that milk and milk products are the most common sources of calcium, so people who cut them out should make sure they get calcium elsewhere. A doctor or dietitian can help with this.
This is general information, not medical advice. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about your symptoms.
People also ask
Can lactose intolerant people drink skim milk?
Skim milk still contains lactose, because NIDDK says lactose is in all milk. Some people tolerate small amounts; ask a doctor.
Is low-fat milk lower in lactose?
We found no official source saying so. NIDDK says lactose is in all milk and milk products.
What milk is best for lactose intolerance?
NIDDK says lactose-free and lactose-reduced milk may help lower the lactose in your diet.
Sources
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