About Lactose
Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products, often avoided by those with lactose intolerance.
Lactose is a disaccharide sugar composed of glucose and galactose. It is naturally found in milk and dairy products. Lactose requires the enzyme lactase to be broken down in the human digestive system. Individuals with insufficient lactase production may experience difficulty digesting lactose, leading to symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea.
Other names on labels
- Milk sugar
Commonly found in
- Milk
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Ice cream
- Cream
- Butter
- Whey protein
Why people avoid it
People avoid lactose primarily due to lactose intolerance, a condition where the body lacks enough lactase enzyme to properly digest lactose, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort. Some individuals with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose, while others may need to avoid it entirely. Additionally, some people choose to avoid lactose for dietary preferences or vegan lifestyles.
Common questions
What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a condition where individuals have difficulty digesting lactose due to a deficiency in the lactase enzyme, leading to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and gas.
Can lactose be found in non-dairy products?
Yes, lactose can sometimes be found in processed foods, medications, and supplements as an additive or filler. It's important for those with lactose intolerance to read labels carefully.
Are there any health benefits to consuming lactose?
Lactose itself does not offer specific health benefits beyond being a source of energy. However, dairy products containing lactose are often rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
How can I identify lactose-free products?
Look for labels that state 'lactose-free' or 'does not contain lactose'. These products have had the lactose removed or broken down.
About this information
The diet note and ingredient information come from Spoonful’s dietitian-reviewed ingredient library. The note above is for Lactose-free; the overview and FAQs provide additional ingredient information.
An ingredient guide does not assess every ingredient in a finished product. Check the current package and your individual dietary needs.
Our sources, note attribution and corrections processFurther reading
Official resources for understanding this diet and food labels.
