Understanding the nuances between similar terms can be daunting when it comes to dietary restrictions.
One of the common confusions is wanting to know what’s the differences between lactose-free and dairy-free.
These two labels are applied to different foods and products, yet they sound similar on the surface, which can cause a lot of confusion.
Despite their similarities, some key differences set these two concepts apart.
Understanding these details is essential if you want to make sure your diet is appropriately adjusted for any allergies or sensitivities.
This article will dive into precisely what sets lactose-free and dairy-free apart so you know when to use each label in your daily life.
Table of Contents
What is lactose, and what does it do in the body?
Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk and other dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.
Although lactose is indigestible by itself, it is broken down into galactose and glucose after it reaches the small intestine.
These two sugars are transported around the body via the bloodstream to provide energy.
Additionally, calcium and phosphorus are absorbed due to the presence of lactose, as they can be bonded onto its surface.
Moreover, research suggests that increased lactose consumption can lead to improved gut health and boosted immunity.
One thing is for sure – when it comes to our bodies, lactose packs a punch. Check out meal delivery dairy free if you are lactose intolerant.
What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance and dairy allergy/sensitivity?
Before we look at the differences between lactose-free and dairy-free products, it’s essential to understand what happens when people can’t digest lactose or are allergic/sensitive to dairy.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance typically start 30 minutes to two hours after eating foods containing lactose, and these can include abdominal bloating, cramping, flatulence, nausea, and diarrhea.
In severe cases, some people may also experience vomiting and headaches.
On the other hand, those with a dairy allergy or sensitivity tend to experience even more extreme symptoms, such as tongue swelling, difficulty breathing and swallowing hives on the skin, or anaphylaxis (a severe condition that requires immediate medical care).
It’s essential to be aware that if you suspect either of these conditions, it’s best to visit your doctor as soon as possible.
What are the differences between lactose-free and dairy-free?
Now that we’ve familiarized ourselves with the symptoms of lactose intolerance and dairy allergies sensitivity let’s look at the differences between lactose-free and dairy-free products.
Lactose-free foods are specifically created for those who can no longer digest lactose due to a lack of the necessary enzymes in the gut.
These food items still contain some dairy elements but have had their lactose content reduced or completely removed.
Lactose-free products are an excellent option for lactose intolerant but still want to enjoy some of their favorite dairy treats.
On the other hand, dairy-free foods exclude all dairy ingredients from their recipes, including milk and any derivatives such as cheese or yogurt.
In short, these foods have no dairy content, making them an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions due to allergies or other sensitivities.
How can you tell if a product is lactose-free or dairy-free?
So how can you tell if a food product is lactose-free or dairy-free?
The easiest way to check is to look for the label.
Many products now have “lactose-free” or “dairy-free” labels, so you can quickly identify which product it is.
You can also look at the product ingredients, as this will help you determine whether or not it contains any dairy.
Generally speaking, lactose-free foods will still contain some dairy elements, such as whey protein concentrate or skimmed milk powder.
On the other hand, dairy-free products will not include any dairy ingredients.
Finally, it’s important to remember that lactose-free and dairy-free products are not always interchangeable.
If you have a severe allergy or intolerance to dairy, always double-check the labels before purchasing any food items.
Are there any risks associated with going dairy-free or lactose-free?
Although both lactose-free and dairy-free diets can benefit those with dietary restrictions, they also come with some risks.
If you switch to a lactose-free diet, it’s crucial to ensure that you still get adequate calcium, as this is often found in dairy products.
Without enough calcium, you may risk developing osteoporosis or weakening bones.
Meanwhile, those who opt for a dairy-free diet must ensure they include other calcium sources such as tofu, almonds, and leafy green vegetables. If not, they could also be at risk of developing weak bones.
It’s also important to be aware that some lactose-free and dairy-free products may contain other allergens such as gluten, nuts, or soy.
Therefore, it’s always worth double-checking the product label before consuming any food items if you have allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients.
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