Caution: Calcium supplements should be avoided by prostate cancer patients.

Researchers have yet to clearly determine whether lactose-intolerant people absorb less calcium.³ As lactose-containing foods are among the best dietary sources of calcium, alternative sources of calcium (from beverages, foods, or supplements) are important for lactose-intolerant people. A typical amount of supplemental calcium is 1,000 mg per day.

Supplemental sources of the enzyme lactase may be used to prevent symptoms of lactose intolerance when consuming lactose-containing dairy products. Lactase drops may be added to regular milk 24 hours before drinking to reduce lactose levels. Lactase drops, capsules, and tablets may also be taken orally, as needed, immediately before a meal that includes lactose-containing dairy products. The degree of lactose intolerance varies by individual, so a greater or lesser amount of oral lactase may be needed to eliminate symptoms of lactose intolerance.⁴