Lactose intolerance has become almost a modern disease. Changes in diet and life habits have contributed to a large number of the world’s population suffering from this problem. Although individuals face this problem with being overweight – there are still those who face the opposite problem. Therefore, here is how you can gain weight faster if you are lactose intolerant.
Lactose Intolerance: What Is It Actually?
Being intolerant to lactose is actually a very common digestive disorder. It is estimated that almost 75% of the entire world’s population has a problem with the digestion of lactose. People who are facing this disorder have trouble digesting food if they consume milk or any dairy products – and that can have a negative effect on our overall health and the complete quality of life. This disorder is present due to our inability to digest lactose, which is the main carbohydrate in milk and milky products.
However, many people often confuse this disease with an allergy to the same products. There is a difference though. Being intolerant is different from being allergic. Intolerance is a disorder of digestion of sugar lactose – while allergy is a violent reaction of the immune system to the protein found in milk.
Even consuming small amounts of dairy products can cause a variety of symptoms – including bloating, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. People who are facing this problem simply don’t have enough of the enzyme lactase – and that’s what we need for digesting lactose.
We Tend To Neglect Digestive Problems
Today, when we live very fast and do not eat very healthy – we are almost used to having some digestive problems. Unfortunately, we tend to put that aside until the situation gets serious. Most of us are not even aware that we have lactose intolerance.
Namely, we start researching this only when problems have already arisen. And the truth is, we can do this very easily by doing a simple food intolerance test that can tell us much more than we can expect. You need to know that the digestive tract and its functions are a very serious system that we should not neglect.
Gaining Weight When Having Lactose Intolerance
Certainly, the diet of people who suffer from lactose intolerance is significantly different from those who do not have this problem. Reduced intake of certain foods sometimes results in weight loss. Lactose intolerance can sometimes make it harder to gain weight – especially in children.
Of course, malnutrition can also be a problem, so it is sometimes advisable to gain a few pounds. And how to compensate for weight loss and gain a few pounds if you have lactose intolerance. Here are some things you can try.
Opt for a little “stronger” protein food
Of course, due to the lack of lactose, it is not surprising that your weight might be reduced – which can be just as inconvenient as when you have a few extra pounds. Therefore, people who are lactose intolerant often have a problem with weight loss.
This problem is best solved by eating a little ‘stronger’ food – in terms of calories. Of course, forget about sugars, but try stronger protein meals. Experts believe that it is best to opt for non-fatty meat such as chicken without skin, boiled beef, tuna, etc. When it comes to vegetables – high-protein vegetables like legumes are the best choice.
Eat healthy carbs
Of course, in your case, you have to forget about fruit yogurts, milk chocolates, or cakes with rich fillings. However, there are sugars and carbohydrates that your system can digest – and that can help you gain at least a few pounds.
It is recommended that you consume whole grain bread. Also, you can consume pasta made from such cereals, as well as brown rice. When you want to eat something sweet, make sure you consume integral treats.
Use oil when cooking
When frying vegetables, meat, or other foods – use healthy oil to add a little fat and calories. Prefer olive oil, grape seed oil, or coconut oil. This can also be a good substitute for butter when preparing cakes. You can also use coconut milk instead of classic milk.
Use supplements in your diet
Today, lactose-free, vitamin, and protein shakes are available to us almost everywhere – from health food stores, through supermarkets, to online shops specializing in this purpose. This way, you will have a double benefit. No lactose intake and you are taking in proteins, vitamins, and minerals that can help you gain weight – but also improve your general health.
