It is important for individuals who are avoiding or limiting the consumption of dairy products to supplement their diets with many of the essential nutrients they may be missing as a result (e.g., vitamin A, vitamin D, calcium). Tips for maintaining a balanced diet while limiting dairy intake include:

• Drink smaller amounts of milk more often. This gives the body more time to digest the smaller amounts of lactose.
  
  
• Try different types of dairy products. If your symptoms allow it, experiment with different types of cheeses and milk products. Many lactose intolerant people can tolerate hard cheeses (e.g., Swiss, cheddar) and yogurt.
  
  
• Drink milk at meal times. This slows the digestive process, giving the body more time to digest the lactose.
  
  
• Use lactose-reduced or lactose-free products. Many types of dairy products are also available in this more easily digested form.
  
  
• Look for other sources of calcium. Other types of foods can be good sources of calcium, particularly:
• Broccoli, collard greens and kale
• Canned salmon
• Sardines
• Almonds
• Oranges and calcium-fortified orange juice
• Some tofu
• Soy milk
• Some bread 
• Some juices
• Molasses

Since the body requires vitamin D to absorb calcium, patients should also be sure to provide themselves with an adequate supply of the vitamin. Dietary sources of vitamin D include eggs and liver. Exposure to sunlight also enables the body to produce the vitamin.  

• Use a dietary supplement. Dietary supplements are available to individuals who find it difficult to get enough nutrients in their diet while limiting their intake of dairy. An individual should consult their physician to determine what type of supplements might be necessary. Both calcium and vitamin D can be easily replaced with supplements.