Not as bad as some Allergies

[seroco]

Hi
Just found this site seems to have some good advice. My wife has been Alergic to Dairy (Lactose Intolerent) must be 25 years now.It started with not being able to finish a meal without going to the loo.then advancing to a form of Epilectic fit every time she would have any, no matter how small amounts of Cassein, Casseinates.Lactose.Whey (Dairy products).It was difficult at the start to shop. Safeways being the first that I found to mark there own products Dairy Free. But now it is not to bad just need to keep an eye out that if you have brought it before and the packing has changed so may have the ingredients. I expect 95% of items in our household is dairy free. just a bit more expensive. My wife now can eat the same as anyone else most of the time.You do have to make sure medication is ok as they use Lactose as a binding agent. So if you have just found out you are Lactose Intolerent (Dairy Free) dont despair there is plenty out there for you.:)

[Copper]

Welcome to the site.

The hardest part about being lactose intolerant is eating out.

[seroco]

Hi
Maybe we have been lucky but we have not had a problem eating out.We always phone first and explain fully what my wifes needs are and explain in plain english if they seem not to sure.Then we check again when we get there. if need be I go through the menu with them.I know this seems overboard but it makes for a good night out and no problems.

[Copper]

I never go anywhere without ringing first. In the summer I had a weird conversation with a chef about dairy free. He told me that he could feed me and I could have this , this and that .... and mashed potato! I asked if he put butter in the mashed potato and he said yes but only a little bit :o I did not go there.

If I am not totally sure that I am eating dairy free food when eating out, I always have my lactase capsules with me and take one. I have not had to do that for a few years now and I have been ok.

[seroco]

Hi
Lactase Capsules?

[Copper]

I am totally lactose intolerant so I do not produce any lactase enzyme. This is the enzyme whick breaks down the lactose into two smaller sugars which can be absorbed by the gut. (Lactose is too big to be absorbed and sits in the gut, ferments and makes us feel ill).

You can buy jars of lactase capsules in my local health food shop. The label says use up to 3. I only use them if I don't trust the restaurant when I eat out. I would not use them to eat lots of dairy food as possibly 3 capsules would not be enough to deal with all that lactose. I am not brave enough to try it.

I am used to a dairy free diet and don't miss cheese etc any more.

[LaurenJoanna]

I considered buying some lactase enzyme from halland and barret but they were quite expensive and i didnt know how often i would use them. Seems like a good idea if eating at a restaurant though.