I have been diagnosed as severely lactose intolerant. How can I tell which foods I need to avoid?

Lactose is the main sugar found in milk. When someone is lactose intolerant it means their body can't digest lactose because they don't have enough of the enzyme lactase in their small intestine.

Lactose is included as an ingredient in many ready meals and other pre-packed foods, so always check the ingredients on food labels for lactose and other ingredients that might contain it, such as whey powder and dried skimmed milk.

Since 25 November 2005, all pre-packed foods sold in the UK, and the rest of the EU, have had to show clearly on the label if they (or their ingredients) contain milk, or any of the ingredients of milk. This should make it easier for you to choose foods that are suitable for you.

Some people with lactose intolerance find that they can cope with small amounts of milk in their diet, such as a milk glaze on pastry, or one or two pieces of chocolate, but the amount that someone can tolerate varies from person to person.

Milk and dairy products with reduced lactose are available from some supermarkets and health food shops. You can also use soya, oat or rice drinks instead of milk - it's a good idea to choose one with added calcium.

It is also possible to get the enzyme lactase as drops or tablets that you can add to milk products or take with meals, to help your body break down lactose. You can buy these over the counter from pharmacies, but don't give them to children without asking your doctor or dietitian for advice.