Skip to main content
Get Care MyChart Find a Provider Find a Location

We hear it all the time, "I can't do dairy!"

Many people have trouble digesting dairy foods, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, gas, bloating, abdominal cramps and nausea. Intolerance to dairy products can be caused by lactose intolerance. But what is lactose intolerance and what can be done about it?

Lactose is the type of sugar that is found in milk and dairy foods. Lactose intolerance is caused by a lack of the enzyme (lactase) that is needed to break down the sugar (lactose) in the small intestine. Symptoms usually begin 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingesting lactose. Risk factors for developing lactose intolerance include increasing age, ethnicity, with people of African, Asian, Hispanic and American Indian descent having increased incidence, and certain diseases of the small intestine including celiac and Crohn's disease.

The condition is considered harmless, but can cause much discomfort for some individuals and can result in inadequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D.

Some individuals can tolerate a certain amount of lactose and others need to avoid it entirely. Lactase enzyme supplements that are taken with the first bite of a dairy food work for some individuals.

To ensure you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D, try an alternative milk such as soy, almond, or coconut milk that is fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Look for non-dairy foods high in calcium such as fortified orange juice, canned salmon, kale, dried beans, broccoli and almonds. You may also need to take a vitamin D supplement to meet your needs.

So, if you find yourself saying, "I can't do dairy" you may have intolerance to lactose, but remember that most people can very successfully manage symptoms of lactose intolerance with varying degrees of change to their diet.

Related articles

Woman in exercise clothing eating healthy bowl.

Protein takeover: How much is really needed per day?

Protein's superpower is its ability to satiety. Gundersen's dietitian shares protein options and how much protein you should aim to eat daily.
woman doing dumbbell curl

What exercise burns the most calories?

Discover the benefits of anaerobic and high-intensity workouts, which help burn calories and improve overall fitness. Start your calorie-burning journey today.
Nutrition and your mental health

The link between nutrition and your mental health

The foods you eat can positively impact your brain function, mood and mental health. Apply this “back to the basics” approach of focusing on simple, healthy food for the brain
Is my child getting enough fiber

How much fiber does my child need?

Learn about the importance of fiber in a child’s diet and how to incorporate high-fiber foods for kids.

1900 South Ave.
La Crosse, WI 54601

(608) 782-7300

Language Support:
Jump back to top