Lactose is a sugar contained in all cow’s milk products, which can cause undesirable symptoms if you are sensitive to this particular ingredient. If you are on a diet that excludes the sugar, then you will also want to dine out in places that do not serve lactose-containing food items. The best lactose-free restaurants serve meals that do not contain any milk products whatsoever. In order to be certain, you should request detailed menus to ensure that a particular meal of interest is prepared without lactose. Although lactose-free restaurants are the safest places to dine out if you are on this particular diet, you can still eat at other establishments so long as you know what ingredients are used in certain meals.
Legitimate lactose-free restaurants specifically state that their menu items are completely free of milk. Such establishments do not serve foods prepared with cheese or butter, as well as those that are fried in milk products. Instead, some of the menu items might be cooked with heart-healthy alternatives such as olive or canola oil. A lactose-free restaurant might also offer its customers rice or soy milk as an alternative to the traditional version derived from cows. An establishment that uses any dairy products is not considered a true lactose-free dining place.
The downside to looking for lactose-free restaurants is that they are outnumbered by eating establishments that widely utilize cow’s milk. Still, you can eat out at any restaurant so long as you look for meals that do not contain any dairy products. In order to exercise on the side of caution, you might also request additional ingredient information from your waiter if you are unsure about a specific menu item. A restaurant that does not readily give you such requested information should be avoided because you do not want to take the risk of eating foods that can irritate your condition.
Obvious products are avoidable if you are on a lactose-free diet, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. There are some types of food items, however, which are also surprisingly made with milk, so they will contain lactose. Such foods include bread, pasta, and fried dishes. Although not all items in these categories are made with milk, it is important that you check with your waiter in advance so that you do not experience any unwanted symptoms from eating your meal. Grilled and sautéed meats are preferable over fried versions, as well as those cooked with potential milk containing sauces.