Can people with diabetes drink lactose-free pure milk?

Everyone knows that plain milk still contains substantial lactose, which must be broken down into galactose by lactase in the human body. So, can people with diabetes drink lactose-free plain milk?

Can people with diabetes drink lactose-free plain milk?

People with diabetes may consume lactose-free milk in moderation—but not in excess. If blood glucose levels are well-controlled, individuals with diabetes may appropriately include lactose-free milk in their diet. They may opt for unsweetened milk products, such as plain (whole) milk. Patients should also adhere to their physician’s instructions regarding glucose-lowering medications—for example, metformin. If pharmacological therapy proves insufficient, insulin injection may be required. In daily life, patients must restrict sugar intake and avoid excessive consumption of sweets, which could cause rapid spikes in blood glucose.

Although labeled “lactose-free,” such milk still contains trace amounts of lactose. While generally suitable for people with diabetes, it should be consumed cautiously. Since most milk contains a certain amount of fat, individuals with diabetes must monitor both sugar and fat intake. People with diabetes are advised to drink milk during daytime hours. Additionally, a serving size of low-fat milk should be approximately 200 mL per intake. Moreover, individuals with diabetic retinopathy (diabetic eye disease) should avoid milk altogether.

Some individuals with diabetes and coexisting eye conditions may have lactase deficiency. Milk naturally contains about 5% lactose; frequent ingestion of milk leads to repeated galactose exposure, which may cause galactose to accumulate and adhere to the lens of the eye. This impairs normal lens metabolism, reduces lens transparency, and promotes or accelerates the development of age-related cataracts. We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you a joyful life and good health!