Is it ok for lactose intolerant people to eat cottage cheese?
Quick Answer
It depends
Cottage cheese contains less lactose than other dairy products, but it still contains some. The tolerance level varies among individuals with lactose intolerance. Some may be able to tolerate small amounts of cottage cheese, while others may experience symptoms.
What Is It?
Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder caused by the inability to digest lactose, the main carbohydrate in dairy products. Cottage cheese is a type of fresh cheese made from the curds of cow’s milk.
How to Tell
Symptoms of lactose intolerance can include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms can occur anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy products.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming cottage cheese when you’re lactose intolerant can lead to uncomfortable digestive symptoms.
The risks of consuming cottage cheese for lactose intolerant individuals include triggering symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration.
Safe Method?
If you’re lactose intolerant and want to eat cottage cheese, consider taking lactase supplements before eating. These can help break down the lactose and prevent symptoms.
Safe Alternatives
Alternatives to cottage cheese for those with lactose intolerance include lactose-free cottage cheese, almond milk cottage cheese, or tofu as a protein-rich substitute.