A new Lactose Intolerance in Multicultural Communities Survey sponsored by the LACTAID(R) Brand found that 77 percent of Latinas reduce the amount of milk or dairy in their diet as a way to manage their lactose intolerance. Yet, 63 percent of Latinas who have lactose intolerance worry the condition keeps them from consuming important nutrients, such as calcium and vitamins A and D. Despite their concerns, only 14 percent have talked to a health care professional about lactose intolerance.
The study found that more than half of Latinas are unsure about what foods may cause discomfort and 12 percent remove dairy from their diet completely as a way to control their lactose intolerance. This is concerning as dairy foods and beverages contain key essential nutrients that are important for a healthy lifestyle.
Since 50 to 80 percent of Latinos may have symptoms of lactose intolerance, there is a need for a greater understanding of how to manage the condition. In fact, lactose intolerance is easy to diagnose and easy to manage, without forgoing dairy and the foods Latinas and their families love. That's why to help educate women about lactose intolerance, the LACTAID(R) Brand has partnered with Angelica Vale, Mexican comedian and actress, who is lactose intolerant and who has learned to enjoy dairy and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
"Although I am lactose intolerant, milk and dairy products are an important part of my diet. I rely on LACTAID(R) Milk to ensure I drink real, delicious milk everyday and consume the nutrients necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle," said Vale. "I love to make fruit licuados for breakfast, and because I have a sweet tooth, desserts like flan are a perfect ending to dinner. So it's great that I can manage my lactose intolerance without giving up my favorite traditional dishes."