What causes lactose intolerance?
Lactose is digested in the small intestine by an enzyme called lactase. This enzyme allows the body to break down the lactose into two simple sugars, glucose and galactose. These are quickly absorbed by the intestine and provide energy for the body. The level of the lactase enzyme varies between individuals, as does the severity of symptoms caused by lactose intolerance.
What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance?
Symptoms range from mild abdominal discomfort, bloating and excessive wind to severe abdominal cramps and diarrhoea.
Substitutes for lactose-containing foods
Lactose intolerance generally isn't serious and can be controlled by some simple changes in your diet. The dietary changes for lactose intolerance should include the exclusion of those foods highest in lactose. There is now a wide range of fresh soy milks, yoghurts and ice creams which are lactose free and calcium enriched. Many dairy foods actually have little or no lactose so you can continue to enjoy them.
The power of soy protein Soy-based products are on the rise for very healthy reasons. The humble soybean boasts some extraordinary benefits. Lactose-free, soy protein is a "complete protein" which contains all 9 essential amino acids in the right balance to meet your body's needs. Soy protein is the only plant protein that is complete. This makes it a great substitute for many meats, allowing you to eliminate more saturated fat and cholesterol from your diet. While soybeans have much to offer from a protein perspective, it is because they contain so many nutrients, such as isoflavones, that they are now the centre of so much attention. Soy protein enhances the body's ability to retain and better absorb calcium into the bones. Soy isoflavones help by slowing bone loss and inhibiting bone breakdown.
Lactose-free Formula 1
The super soy bean is at teh heart of Herbalife's Formula 1 and Thermojetics Protein Powder. Those with lactose intolerance can mix Formula 1 and Protein Powder with water, soy milk or fruit juice rather than skim milk, confident they are still getting all the nutrients they would normally get from milk, and then some, without the risk of lactose symptoms.
Ideal meal
-shakes Chocolate strawberry, peach almond, cafe mocha. You can enjoy delicious shakes like these and still lose weight. Formula 1 nutritional shake mix includes heart-smart soy protein and essential vitamins and minerals - all in one delicious meal! This recipe delivers at least 29 grams of protein. The combination of protein and fruit in shakes makes them more filling to help keep you satisfied and your cravings at bay. Recipe
- Strawberry Parfait Ingredients: 29 grams French Vanilla Formula 1 shake mix 18 grams Protein Powder 170 gram carton strawberry-flavoured fat-free soy yoghurt 1 cup strawberries 4 ice cubes
Directions:
Place all ingredients in the blender and mix thoroughly until the ice cubes are completely crushed. Ice cubes are optional.
Note: for a thinner consistency, add 1/4 cup non-fat soy milk.
By Sheridan Woodcroft
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