Posted by Rachel on: April 25 2010

I suggested to one of my friends that she try cutting milk from her diet, thinking that she might be lactose intolerant . She was having trouble with gas, bloating, digestion, and allergies - typical symptoms if sensitive to dairy products. Two weeks after giving it a go, her trouble happily stopped.

Of course, it's not always so simple, but it is true that over half of the adult population has difficulty digesting milk. As we age, our bodies lose the ability to produce the enzyme, lactase, which is needed to help break down the lactose (milk sugar) found in milk.

In the first part of the video below (Dr. Katherine Pollard) discusses how certain cultures developed (evolved) the enzyme that is needed to digest cow (and goat) milk.  Her research has led her to believe that  - depending on our genetic lineage - some of us have retained that ability. Those of us who aren't so lucky just have to be more selective about dairy products. 

 

If you are a milk or dairy lover, I would recommend getting your dairy products at Trader Joe's, Whole Foods or Lazy Acres. They have a wide selection of organic brands. Or if you can't for whatever reason there are always alternatives; see below:

Yogurt and Kefir - the bacteria help digest the lactase enzyme in our bodies 

Lactaid Milk - adds the lactase enzyme back in to milk 

Lactase pills

Cheese - has only .5 grams of lactose ( in moderation it may be tolerated as a treat )

Soy Milk

Almond Milk

Rice Milk

 

Categories: nutrition

Tags: milk, santa barbara nutrition, health, lactose intolerant, lactase enzyme