The lactose content in dairy foods varies between products.

Most dairy foods contain the natural sugar, lactose, however some dairy foods contain very little or no lactose.

Hard cheeses, such as cheddar and Parmesan, as well as matured cheeses such as brie, camembert and feta contain virtually no lactose. Yoghurt contains good bacteria, which helps break down the lactose. Low-lactose and lactose-free milks and yoghurts are also available.

If you suspect you might be intolerant to lactose, it's important to speak with a dietitian or experienced health professional before making dietary changes.

Dairy foods don’t have to be eliminated from a lactose intolerant person’s diet, rather lactose intake should be adjusted according to tolerance. Spreading dairy intake out over a day, for example, instead of concentrating it in one meal is often better tolerated.

References

Savaiano DA, Boushey CJ, McCabe GP. Lactose intolerance symptoms assessed by meta-analysis: a grain of truth that leads to exaggeration. J Nutr 2006;136(4):1107-13.