Dairy foods don’t all contain the same amount of lactose. Many people with lactose intolerance can consume moderate amounts of lactose (up to the equivalent of one cup of milk) without experiencing digestive symptoms,[1] making it possible to enjoy lower-lactose dairy foods on a low-lactose diet.[2] Medications and processed non-dairy foods may also have lactose added during processing–for example, Pop Rocks candy and Pringles Salt & Vinegar chips both contain lactose,[3][4] despite having no obvious connection to dairy–so people who experience symptoms with smaller amounts of lactose may need to check labels carefully.
How could diet affect lactose intolerance?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Diet can significantly affect lactose intolerance because not all dairy foods contain the same amount of lactose, and many people can tolerate moderate amounts without symptoms. Additionally, some nondairy processed foods may contain added lactose, so people who are sensitive to lactose should read labels carefully.