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Lactose free milk is healthy for those who have lactose intolerance. This is a condition when the small intestine cannot handle lactose. When you consume lactose-based products, it produces reactions such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, etc. Dairy milk and products are not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Choose from lactose-free alternatives that protect your gut and digestive system and prevent symptoms. In addition, each comes with a roster of health benefits and helps in boosting the immune system.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is when the body does not produce the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking lactose found in regular milk. Lactose free milk is as nutritious as regular milk and contains the enzyme lactase, which makes it easy to digest for those who suffer from this condition.
Lactose free milk is commercially manufactured and contains all the nutrients and vitamins in milk. If your body is not producing this enzyme, lactose-free milk can help digest milk. You can notice a difference in the taste of lactose-free milk as it is usually slightly sweeter than regular milk.
You can use lactose-free milk in making various recipes. Lactose intolerance is caused at any age due to digestive problems. If the digestive system is distressed and undiagnosed, it causes a disorder of lactose intolerance.
Lactose-Free Milk Alternatives
There are delicious alternatives to regular milk for those who are lactose intolerant. But it comes with a set of pros and cons. Lactose free milk is not the same as dairy-free milk because it is made from cow’s milk.
Though it contains a high nutritional value, it is essential to check the labels for added sugar, and the content of sweeteners added. Plant-based milk, such as soy, etc., is dairy-free. You can choose lactose free or plant-based milk which is two different things when consuming milk.
Plant-Based Milk
Almond Milk
Almond milk is one of the best alternatives for lactose intolerance. It comes in different flavors and can be made at home with almonds and water. It is nutritious and has minerals, vitamins, and calcium. It is antioxidant-rich and low fat, low sugar. It is not suitable for infants or children as it lacks protein.
Rice Milk
Rice milk is a good alternative for dairy-free and lactose intolerance unless you have diabetes. If you are allergic to nuts, rice milk comes with nutrients and flavors. Rice milk is low fat and low protein. It is not as healthy as soy or tofu milk because it has low protein.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is nutrient and minerals rich and has high calories and fiber. It boosts metabolism and is suitable for bone health. It is not recommended for people who suffer from high cholesterol. It comes in delicious flavors and can be used in cooking. It has a thick, creamy texture.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is vitamin, calcium, minerals, nutrients, and antioxidant-rich. It can be used for making coffee and smoothies and is an excellent alternative to dairy milk. It is thinner than regular milk and has a bland taste. Drinking soy milk regularly could lead to breast cancer because of high estrogen levels. It propagates heart and bone health.
Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is a healthy alternative to cow milk and does not contain lactase. It contains vitamins, minerals, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. It is low in fat, has no lactose, and has no cholesterol, making it ideal for keeping your heart healthy. It is not helpful for those who want to build muscles and athletes as it has low protein.
Hazelnut Milk
If you are a caffeine addict, it is good to stick to plant-based milk as it gives a delicious flavor, is low fat, low calorie, and is very nutritious. You can gulp down a few cups of coffee without worrying about the fat content in cashew milk. Make smoothies and milkshakes, and use them in cooking. The low-fat content makes it a healthy alternative to dairy milk.
Oat Milk
Oat milk is rich in iron, an attribute you will not find in any other milk alternative. It is helpful for those who suffer from anemic conditions. It has high protein, calcium, and fiber that help strengthen bones, build muscles, and keep the heart healthy. It has high calories and is not suitable for toddlers and babies.
Non-Plant Based Milk
Goat Milk
Goat milk is good for the digestive system and heart health. It is low in fat and high in nutrients. It fills the nutritional deficiencies in the body and is helpful for those who suffer from anemia.
Conclusion
Lactose intolerance leads to numerous side effects when you drink dairy milk. These are the alternative options for those who suffer from this condition. Use it in making coffee, tea, cooking, and making delicious smoothies as they come with rich nutrients and vitamins. They come with numerous health benefits and prevent side effects like bloating, abdominal cramps, etc. when you drink dairy milk.