Lactose-Free Diet Benefits

Lactose is a disaccharide, double sugar, found in milk and other diary products. Eating a lactose-free diet means eating foods without this disaccharide. There are several benefits from a lactose-free diet and many products for the public to choose from when deciding to go lactose-free. Find the benefits in living a lactose-free life.

Got Lactose-Free Milk?

• Many would agree there are some challenges when it comes to eating a diet free of lactose. But others would agree the benefits outweigh the challenges. Choose lactose-free foods if trying to avoid the allergies milk protein produce. Lactose-free foods are also best when people deal with lactose-intolerance (an inability to properly digest milk or milk products). Milk and other diary products containing lactose can contribute to physical symptoms such as lethargy, weight gain, migraines and autoimmune disorders.

  Diary products containing lactose have been associated with a risk of breast cancer, diabetes type I and II, prostate cancer, obesity, high cholesterol and heart disease. Counteract future health problems by diving into the lactose-free world head first.

All in the Family

• Another benefit of eating a lactose-free diet is the fact it fits the whole family. Practically anyone can eat a lactose-free diet and maintain a healthy and nutritious lifestyle. A lactose-free diet benefits those who are allergic to milk or have lactose intolerance. However, it is important to remember to visit personal health-care provider before going lactose-free. A lactose-free diet can be started at any time after consulting a health-care provider.

Recipe the Lactose-Free Way

• The best way to get on a good lactose-free start is by having good recipes. Try the following lactose-free recipe.

  Garlicky mashed sweet potatoes are a lactose-free dish without the butter. Gather the following ingredients; 1 head garlic, 1 tbsp. finely chopped rosemary, 1 tbsp. olive oil, 4 large sweet potatoes, 2 large apples peeled and diced, 2 tsp. salt, and 1 tsp balsamic vinegar.

  Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cut top off garlic clove and place on foil. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and olive oil over garlic. Wrap in foil and heat for 50 to 60 minutes until garlic is golden brown.

  Put sweet potatoes and apples in pot with water, add salt, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain sweet potatoes and apples and place in serving bowl. Put 1 cup of cooking water to side.

  Squeeze roasted garlic into sweet potatoes and apples. Add balsamic vinegar and mash. Gradually add cooking water for desired creaminess and texture. Season with pepper to taste. Serve while hot. This recipe yields 158 calories, 2 grams fat, 220 milligrams sodium, 34 grams carbohydrates, 5 grams fiber, 2 grams protein, and 10 grams sugar.