I have discovered I am lactose intolerant, as well as gluten intolerant. Do these afflictions often go together? Does taking lactase "with the first bite" of cheese really help?
Dr. Gourmet Says...
Lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity are not related. There is a condition where some people develop an allergic type reaction to the proteins in milk, but this is not the same as lactose intolerance. Using lactase products, however, can help a lot for many people with lactose deficiency. You can find information on Lactose Intolerance in the Lactose Intolerance section on the Dr. Gourmet website.
True celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to the gluten in foods. The most prevalent source of gluten in our food supply is wheat products, but there are many foods that contain small amounts and this can be a serious problem for those with celiac disease.
We will soon be offering information about gluten sensitivity, celiac disease and gluten free foods in a special diet section on the Dr. Gourmet web site. We are working hard to incorporate this into our meal planning software, My eatTHISdiet, as well. Look for this on the website in mid-March.
Thanks for writing,
Timothy S. Harlan, M.D.
Dr. Gourmet