Being lactose intolerant is a commonly overlooked struggle, with most people who cannot consume dairy products having a dairy allergy rather than an  intolerance. Rarely dangerous—if ever—unlike an allergy,  lactose intolerance can still cause great discomfort and inconvenience a person at the worst times. The unpleasant symptoms upon consuming dairy include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, bloating, and gas (mayoclinic.org). Many people develop the condition as they age because the human body stops producing the enzyme required to break down breast milk consumed as an infant. As such, those who are lactose intolerant may have already tasted the vast array of delicious dairy products that are offered. Some might mournfully pine for the sweet, creamy taste of ice cream, while many simply cannot resist the temptation, devouring tubs of ice cream to their demise. Kimberley Jeves (12) says, “it’s a hassle to find lactose-free drinks and dairy products. I’m willing to sacrifice my stomach for good food.” If you suffer from lactose intolerance, read the following to discover lactose-free products to ease your pain and cravings (not ranked in any particular order).

First, although not food, Kirkland Signature Fast Acting Lactase supplements are an absolute lifesaver. These supplements are available at Costco for $17.99 and compensate for a lactase deficiency. With them, one can indulge in their favorite dairy products with more or even complete comfort. Dosage may vary depending on the severity of an individual’s lactose intolerance and the amount of lactose consumed, typically expiring after about half an hour; the pills are also gluten-free, another plus for those with dietary restrictions.

As the day starts with breakfast, you may want to start your day with Green Valley Creamery’s organic lactose-free cream cheese atop a bagel or toast. I was pleasantly surprised by this product after trying many different plant-based cream cheese alternatives that didn’t taste quite right. I missed the creamy, smooth texture and taste of standard cream cheese and grew to loathe the hummus-like taste and grainy texture of plant-based products. Green Valley Creamery’s cream cheese tastes exactly like normal cream cheese, if not better. The secret behind this achievement may be the interesting ingredient of lactase enzymes themselves within the brand’s products, on top of having the lactose proteins removed at the molecular level. 

If you thought the science behind that was interesting, you wouldn’t believe UNREAL’s Chocolate products. They taste, well, unreal. Contrary to what one might expect, the brand boasts a wide variety of tasty treats, from chocolate gems to chocolate peanut butter cups. Low in sugar, colorful, all-natural, and miraculously healthy, UNREAL’s chocolates are not only accommodating for those with a lactose intolerance—those who are vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO can enjoy as well. Unbelievably delicious and addicting, UNREAL’s chocolates make for sweet treats anytime.

Last—but not least—are So Delicious Dairy Free’s ice cream products. From tub ice cream to ice cream sandwiches to chocolate-dipped ice cream bars, the brand offers an extensive amount of flavors for one to enjoy. Such flavors include Mocha Almond Fudge and Salted Caramel Cluster. With So Delicious Dairy Free, lactose-intolerant ice cream lovers can finally gobble down a tub of ice cream without having to worry about the consequences again.

Fortunately, there are numerous lactose-free products for all to enjoy, although not listed here. Many are plant-based, with core ingredients like soy, almonds, and more, but there are also dairy products that simply have their lactose proteins removed for a more authentic taste. If given enough trial and error, one can find products that suit their tastes.