<human>: i have a ? my daughter is lactose intarent sorry i cant spell um i dont no what i can do about food choices at the store that doesent have diry in them im so lost i dont wanna give up hope what do i do shes in pain in her stomach every time she has any food tht has any hidden dairy dont no what to do
<bot>: Thanks for putting up your query at Chat Doctor. I understand the cause of your concern, but you have not mentioned the age of the child and that would have been important. The dietary changes for lactose intolerance should initially include the exclusion of those foods rich in lactose. If the symptoms resolve then small amounts of lactose containing foods may be reintroduced, and symptoms monitored. Most people will be able to determine their tolerance level for lactose. Very rarely people may be so sensitive that they will need to exclude foods with lower levels of lactose including biscuits, cakes and other processed foods. It is important to find a suitable replacement if important foods are excluded from the diet. The lactose content of dairy foods varies widely, as do the serving sizes consumed. Breastfeeding need not be stopped unless the baby has severe problems with it. Being lactose intolerant is not the same as having milk allergy, which is a more serious problem affecting a much smaller portion of the population. Had I known the age of the child, I could have commented better, but the following food can be given if age appropriate:* Spinach* Canned salmon or sardines with bones* Calcium-fortified orange juice* Raw broccoli* Canned white tuna* Calcium-fortified soy milk* Dark green leafy vegetables* Almonds guide to a healthy lactose free/low lactose eating planBreakfast:A bowl of high fiber cereal such as Weetabix or oatmeal with fresh fruit and soy or low lactose milk (if tolerated) and/or wholemeal or grain toast with milk free margarine e.g. Sundew and honey or Vegemite. Tea or coffee with soy or low lactose milk. Lunch:Sandwiches made with wholemeal bread with lean beef, tinned fish such as salmon (include the bones for calcium) and salad. Milk free margarine if necessary. Tinned or fresh fruit. Water, tea, diluted juice or cappuccino made with soy milk. Main Meal:Water with lemon juice. Chicken and vegetable stir-fry served with steamed rice. Fruit and Ferruccio dairy free ice cream, or custard made on soy or low lactose milk. Snacks:Fresh fruit, crackers or microwaved poppadoms with salsa, popcorn. Toasted fruit loaf with milk free margarine and. Water, juice, tea, coffee or hot chocolate made from cocoa and soy milk. I hope that helps. Feel free to revert with further queries if any.