Milk and milk products are very important for growing children, due to their calcium content. In particular, bones, teeth, muscles, nerves and hormones need this mineral in order to function well. Therefore a sufficient intake of calcium is particularly important for sufferers of lactose intolerance.

Because lactose tolerance is individual to each person affected, you should test yourself with small amounts after a phase without eating food containing lactose, to see how much lactose your child can tolerate.

Include all foods that contain calcium in your dietary plan. In particular, well-ripened cheese or sour milk products such as yoghurt pose no problem for sufferers. Lactose-free milk products and vegetables that contain calcium, such as spinach, parsley or broccoli, as well as nuts and sesame are also good sources of calcium. Do lots of activities with your child in the fresh air. In order to store calcium the body needs vitamin D, which is specifically created via sunlight.

Ask your doctor whether a supplement with calcium preparations and vitamin D is appropriate and necessary for the child.

Nursery and school

Of course, it can be uncomfortable for children and young people when they have a special status in their school class or among their circle of friends, due to the fact they cannot eat particular foods. So include their friends early on. Involve your child in cooking and baking and show them the many alternatives. That way no child will feel excluded.

Talk to childcare workers and teachers and inform them in detail about the child's lactose intolerance. Together you will be able to find a way to make kindergarten or school a place of carefree enjoyment for your child.

Talk to childcare workers and teachers and inform them in detail about the child's lactose intolerance. Together you will be able to find a way to make kindergarten or school a place of carefree enjoyment for your child.

For unforeseen circumstances you can simply leave little treats such as lactose-free biscuits or lactose-free yoghurt at the nursery or school.