Lactose
AvoidSugar
Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products, often avoided by those with lactose intolerance.
What is Lactose?
Lactose is a disaccharide sugar composed of glucose and galactose, naturally present in the milk of mammals. It is the primary carbohydrate in dairy products and serves as a significant energy source for infants. Lactose is commonly used in the food industry as a sweetener, stabilizer, or filler in various processed foods and pharmaceuticals.
Also known as:
Unsure about an ingredient? Scan it instantly.
Try SpoonfulDiet Compatibility
Lactose (sometimes referred to as saccharum lactin) is a type of sugar found naturally in the milk of most mammals.
Learn more →Lactose (sometimes referred to as saccharum lactin) is a type of sugar found naturally in the milk of most mammals.
Learn more →Lactose, the sugar found in milk, is considered high FODMAP at a normal serving size. The Low FODMAP Diet is not a dairy-free diet, however, so you can enjoy some dairy foods like aged cheese or lactose-free dairy alternatives which are treated with a lactase enzyme at the time of processing.
Learn more →Lactose (sometimes referred to as saccharum lactin) is a type of sugar found naturally in the milk of most mammals, and thus contains alpha-gal.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Lactose
People avoid lactose primarily due to lactose intolerance, a common digestive issue where the body lacks the enzyme lactase, necessary for properly digesting lactose. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and stomach cramps after consuming dairy products. Additionally, those following a dairy-free diet for various health or ethical reasons may also avoid lactose.
Potential Reactions
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Gas
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.
Spoonful flags ingredients that don't match your diet.
Get the AppFoods That Commonly Contain Lactose
Browse products that match your diet.
Explore ProductsFrequently Asked Questions
Your Personal Ingredient Scanner
Spoonful helps thousands of people with dietary restrictions shop safely. Scan barcodes, read labels, and find safe alternatives — all in one app.
Take the Guesswork Out of Grocery Shopping
Join thousands who use Spoonful to find foods that match their dietary needs.