The best treatment of lactose intolerance is a combination of dietary modification to avoid lactose containing foods, and if eating foods with lactose taking a supplement to aid in digestion of lactose.
When an individual intends to eat food that contains lactose they should take a commercially available non-prescription lactase supplement at the time of lactose ingestion. This type of supplement can be taken throughout the day whenever lactose is ingested. Some individuals will be less lactose intolerant and therefore will be able to tolerate comparatively larger amounts of lactose. Alternatives to milk for lactose intolerant individuals include plant based products such as soy milk, Almond milk, coconut milk and others. If an individual is restricting their lactose intake it is important to ensure adequate supplementation of calcium and Vitamin D in the diet.