“To drink, or not to drink, that is the question.” With around 65%1 of our global population suffering from lactose intolerance, that is the painful conundrum most of us experience with a simple glass of milk. While most of us love its rich and creamy taste, gulping down this milky treat often comes with the unfortunate side-effects of stomach discomfort and flatulence.
Thankfully, with the availability of lactose-free milk, we can now put this frustrating dilemma to bed. From the health benefits to differences in taste, here are five things you should know about lactose-free milk.
1. Lactose-free milk is easier to digest for some people.
Lactose intolerance arises from our inability to digest lactose, the primary sugar in milk. Lactose-free milk, however, contains lactase, which helps our body in breaking down lactose. Gulping down a cup of lactose-free milk thus allows you to enjoy its creamy goodness without worrying about bloatedness, nausea, and other discomforting side-effects of indigestion.
2. Lactose-free milk contains the same nutrients as regular milk.
Lactase also preserves the original nutrient profile of normal milk, so expect lactose-free milk to be an equally nutritious alternative. Not only does the lactose-free version offer around 8 grams of protein in a 1-cup (240ml) serving, but it also supplies calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and other key micronutrients2.
3. Lactose-free milk tastes sweeter than regular milk.
Lactase also breaks lactose down into simple sugars: glucose and galactose. Since both of these sugars are more easily detected by our taste buds, lactose-free milk leaves a bolder sweetness3 on the tongue. Perfect if you are craving for that subtle hint of milk sweetness in your bowl of cereal.
4. Lactose-free milk is naturally gluten-free.
A type of plain cow’s milk, lactose-free milk is naturally gluten-free4 as well. If you’re suffering from Celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and wheat allergy, lactose-free milk is another item to add to your shopping list. Furthermore, a gluten-free diet may promote weight loss5, so lactose-free milk is definitely a drink to consider if you’re hoping to shed the extra kilo.
Arla organic milk is ideal for the lactose-intolerant.
Given the prevalence of lactose intolerance, lactose-free milk will become an increasingly regular feature on our grocery lists. If you’re scouring for lactose-free dairy products at the local supermarket, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Arla Lactofree milk. Fully prepared with natural ingredients and packed with organic goodness compared to regular dairy, this rich and creamy drink easily meets your daily intake of calcium and protein. Gulp it all down. Pour it, mix it, blend it, bake it! Whatever makes you feel good.
1 https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/lactose-intolerance#statistics
2 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lactose-free-milk#nutrition
3 https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/differences-between-regular-lactosefree-milk-3178.html
4 https://www.beyondceliac.org/gluten-free-diet/is-it-gluten-free/milk/
5 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gluten-free-diet#negative-effects