Milk and foods made from milk are the most concentrated sources of calcium. Some people avoid milk products because they don t like these foods, do not eat any animal products, or have lactose intolerance. People with lactose intolerance can t digest lactose, the sugar in milk, because their bodies lack the enzyme lactase, which breaks down milk sugar during digestion. They may have nausea, gas, or diarrhea soon after eating or drinking foods containing lactose.
Many people have less severe symptoms.
One person may be able to drink one glass of milk at a time, while others feel sick after drinking only a small amount. Others may be able to manage yogurt, ice cream, and aged cheeses, but not other dairy products. Some people are not actually lactose intolerant but don t drink milk for other reasons. You can get the calcium you need, even if you have lactose intolerance. Many people who have trouble digesting milk can enjoy milk foods if they take them in small amounts or eat other food at the same time, like cereal with milk.