Lactaid Milk: Safe For Pregnancy?

Lactose intolerance is a common condition affecting around 65% of the world's population. It is caused by a lack of lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, into digestible material. This can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, gas, nausea, and diarrhea. As such, it is important for those who are lactose intolerant to ensure they are still receiving enough calcium and vitamin D in their diet. Lactaid is a brand of products that contain lactase, allowing those who are lactose intolerant to digest dairy products without discomfort. This includes Lactaid milk, which is real milk with added lactase, as well as Lactaid dietary supplements. But is Lactaid milk safe during pregnancy?

Lactaid is safe during pregnancy

Lactaid is safe to use during pregnancy. It is an over-the-counter form of lactase, the enzyme that helps to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest this sugar due to the body's insufficient production of lactase. This can cause mild to severe discomfort, such as an upset stomach, gas, bloating, and diarrhoea.

Lactaid products, including Lactaid milk, ice cream, and supplements, are safe to consume during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They are made with real dairy, enriched with lactase, and provide the same nutrients and protein as regular dairy products. The lactase in Lactaid aids in breaking down lactose into two simple sugars, glucose and galactose, which can be easily absorbed by the body.

Pregnant women should always consult their doctor about their diet, especially if they are experiencing lactose intolerance symptoms. While Lactaid is generally safe, it is important to ensure that it is suitable for your individual needs and circumstances.

Lactose intolerance can be managed in several ways. Firstly, a diet adjustment can be made to include non-dairy sources of calcium, such as salmon, almonds, kale, broccoli, and soy milk. Additionally, dairy products with reduced lactose content or lactose-free alternatives can be consumed. Prenatal vitamins or calcium and vitamin D supplements can also help ensure adequate nutrient intake.

Lactaid is a safe option for pregnant women experiencing lactose intolerance, allowing them to enjoy dairy products without discomfort. However, consulting a healthcare provider is essential to ensure proper guidance and management of any dietary restrictions during pregnancy.

Lactose intolerance symptoms

Lactaid milk is an over-the-counter form of lactase that allows people with lactose intolerance to digest lactose and eat dairy. Lactase has not been formally assigned to a pregnancy category by the FDA, and there are no controlled data in human pregnancy. However, it is recommended that lactase be given during pregnancy when the need has been clearly established. Pregnant women who are lactose intolerant can also manage their symptoms by consuming dairy alternatives like almond, soy, or rice milk, or eating dairy products with naturally lower levels of lactose, such as hard cheeses and yogurt.

• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Nausea, and sometimes, vomiting
• Stomach "growling" or rumbling sounds

Lactose intolerance is caused by lactose malabsorption, which occurs when the small intestine does not produce enough lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose. This results in undigested lactose passing into the colon, where bacteria break it down and create fluid and gas, leading to the symptoms of lactose intolerance.

Lactose intolerance diagnosis

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products. This is because the body does not produce enough (or any) lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose into a usable form. Lactose intolerance is usually harmless, but its symptoms can be uncomfortable.

To diagnose lactose intolerance, a doctor will ask about symptoms, family and medical history, and eating habits. They may also perform a physical exam to check for tenderness or pain in the abdomen. The doctor may ask the patient to stop consuming milk and milk products for a period to see if their symptoms disappear. If the symptoms persist, the doctor may order additional tests.

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose lactose intolerance:

• Hydrogen breath test: This test is used to diagnose lactose malabsorption and lactose intolerance. Normally, a small amount of hydrogen gas is found in the breath. If a person has lactose malabsorption, they will have high levels of hydrogen in their breath. During the test, the patient drinks a liquid containing a known amount of lactose, and every 30 minutes over a few hours, their breath is tested for hydrogen levels. If the patient's breath hydrogen levels rise alongside a worsening of symptoms, a diagnosis of lactose intolerance may be made.
• Lactose tolerance test: This test examines how the digestive system absorbs lactose. The patient is asked not to eat or drink anything for about eight hours before the test. They then drink a lactose-containing liquid, and blood samples are taken over a two-hour period to check blood sugar levels. If blood sugar levels do not rise, it may indicate lactose intolerance.
• Stool acidity test: This test is used for infants and young children. It measures the amount of acid in the stool. If a person is not digesting lactose, their stool will contain lactic acid, glucose, and other fatty acids.

Lactose intolerance treatment

Lactose intolerance is the inability of the body to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products. This is because the body does not produce enough lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose. While there is no cure for lactose intolerance, symptoms can be managed through diet changes.

If you are lactose intolerant, you may be wondering how to get the calcium you need during pregnancy without experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, and gas. Here are some ways to manage lactose intolerance during pregnancy:

• Consult a healthcare provider: It is important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure you are receiving enough calcium and vitamin D. They can recommend or prescribe supplements to ensure you are getting the necessary nutrients.
• Dietary adjustments: There are several dietary adjustments you can make to manage lactose intolerance:
• Limit dairy products: Reduce your consumption of milk and other dairy products that are high in lactose.
• Small servings: If you do consume dairy, opt for smaller servings. For example, sip small amounts of milk (up to 4 ounces or 118 milliliters) at a time.
• Combine with other foods: Eat or drink dairy products with other foods. For example, have milk with a meal or cereal, or eat cheese with crackers. This slows the digestive process and may reduce symptoms.
• Experiment with dairy varieties: Not all dairy products have the same amount of lactose. Hard cheeses, such as Swiss or cheddar, have lower amounts of lactose and may not cause symptoms. Cultured milk products like yogurt may also be better tolerated because the bacteria used in the culturing process produce the enzyme that breaks down lactose.
• Lactose-free or lactose-reduced products: Opt for lactose-free or lactose-reduced milk and milk products, which can be found in most supermarkets.
• Add lactase enzymes: Use lactase enzyme tablets, drops, or powders to help digest lactose. Take tablets before a meal or add drops to milk. Alternatively, add a liquid or powder lactase enzyme to milk to break down the lactose.
• Fortified foods: In addition to dairy, there are other sources of calcium and vitamin D. Include the following in your diet:
• Calcium-rich foods: Salmon, almonds, kale, broccoli, okra, sardines, pinto beans, and calcium-fortified products like cereals and juices.
• Vitamin D sources: Limited sun exposure, eggs, liver, yogurt, and vitamin D-fortified foods like bread and orange juice.
• Prenatal vitamins: Taking a prenatal vitamin can help ensure you are obtaining crucial minerals and nutrients for your baby's development. Choose one that contains calcium and vitamin D, or take additional supplements for these nutrients.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are living organisms that help maintain a healthy digestive system. They are available in some yogurts as active or "live" cultures and can also be taken as supplements. Probiotics may help your body digest lactose and are generally considered safe.

It is important to note that the treatment and management of lactose intolerance may vary depending on the underlying cause. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

Lactose intolerance and milk alternatives

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem where the body is unable to digest lactose, a type of sugar mainly found in milk and dairy products. It is estimated that 65% to 75% of the world's population is lactose intolerant. The condition occurs when people have a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme that digests lactose.

Lactose intolerance can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, gas, nausea, and diarrhoea. These symptoms can be managed by adjusting your diet and ensuring you are still getting the necessary nutrients. It is important to consult your healthcare provider to ensure you are receiving enough vitamin D and calcium.

• Soy Milk: One of the oldest known milk substitutes, soy milk is the closest match to cow's milk in terms of nutrient content and consistency. It is an excellent source of thiamine, magnesium, and riboflavin.
• Almond Milk: Almond milk has a pleasant taste and is high in magnesium, potassium, manganese, copper, vitamin E, selenium, and calcium. It is widely available in cartons and will keep for 7 to 10 days refrigerated once opened.
• Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is low in sodium, high in manganese, and very high in saturated fat. It has a creamy texture and a sweet, subtle coconut flavor.
• Oat Milk: Oat milk is naturally sweet and mild in flavor. It is high in total fiber and beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
• Rice Milk: Rice milk is the least allergenic of the nondairy milks and is safe for those with allergies or intolerances to dairy, gluten, soy, or nuts. It contains a similar number of calories to cow's milk but almost double the carbohydrates and considerably less protein and fat.
• Cashew Milk: Cashew milk is rich and creamy with a sweet and subtle nutty flavor. It is low in calories and carbohydrates but also contains very little protein.
• Macadamia Milk: Macadamia milk is a relatively new milk alternative with a rich, smooth, and creamy flavor. It is very low in calories and contains half the fat of cow's milk. It is also a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Hemp Milk: Hemp milk has a slightly sweet, nutty taste and a thin, watery texture. It is a good option for vegans and vegetarians as it provides high-quality complete protein and essential fatty acids.
• Quinoa Milk: Quinoa milk has a distinct flavor and is slightly sweet and nutty. It contains a moderate number of calories, protein, and carbohydrates compared to other nondairy milks. It is a good plant-based source of complete protein for vegetarians and vegans.

When choosing a milk alternative, it is important to consider the added sugar, calcium content, vitamin B12, cost, and any dietary needs or allergies you may have.

Frequently asked questions