7-day Meal Plan For Lactose Intolerance
Need a lactose intolerance-friendly diet? Our 7-day meal plan for lactose intolerance avoids dairy while keeping meals delicious. We'll show you how to prepare lactose-free meals and turn them into an easy shopping list. Let's enjoy dairy-free eating!
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Meal plan grocery list
- Almond milk
- Chia seeds
- Berries
- Chicken breasts
- Mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Olive oil
- Salmon
- Quinoa
- Asparagus
- Rice cakes
- Almond butter
- Lactose-free yogurt
- Banana
- Spinach
- Protein powder
- Black beans
- Corn
- Avocado
- Salsa
- Tofu
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Brown rice
- Mixed nuts
- Dried fruits
- Granola
- Sliced strawberries
- Turkey slices
- Gluten-free tortilla
- Shrimp
- Hummus
- Carrot sticks
- Eggs
- Lactose-free cheese
- Balsamic vinaigrette
- Chicken breast
- Sweet potatoes
- Green beans
- Fresh fruit salad
- Peanut butter
- Lentil soup
- Gluten-free crackers
- Steak
- Brussels sprouts
- Dark chocolate squares
- Almond flour
- Maple syrup
- Bell peppers
- Cod
- Lemon
- Dill
- Rice pudding
- Tomato
- Gluten-free bread
- Marinara sauce
- Gluten-free spaghetti
- Turkey meatballs
- Gluten-free granola
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Dec. 19, 2023.
- Updated on Nov 22, 2024.
Meal plan overview
Need a lactose intolerance-friendly diet? Our 7-day meal plan avoids dairy while keeping meals delicious. It's all about lactose-free alternatives that are both satisfying and nutritious.
From breakfast to dinner, enjoy a variety of dairy-free meals that are easy on the stomach and rich in flavor.
Foods to eat
- Lactose-Free Dairy Alternatives: Opt for lactose-free milk, yogurt, and cheese made from almond, soy, coconut, or lactose-free cow's milk.
- Lactose-Free Milk Substitutes: Choose plant-based milk substitutes like almond milk, soy milk, rice milk, or oat milk.
- Hard Cheeses: Include hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or parmesan, which generally have lower lactose content.
- Lactose-Free Cottage Cheese: Look for lactose-free versions of cottage cheese or consider small amounts if well-tolerated.
- Lactose-Free Yogurt: Choose yogurt specifically labeled as lactose-free or opt for non-dairy yogurt alternatives.
- Lactose-Free Butter: Use lactose-free butter or ghee as a cooking and spreading option.
- Lactose-Free Ice Cream: Enjoy lactose-free ice cream or non-dairy alternatives for a sweet treat.
- Non-Lactose High Calcium Foods: Include foods high in calcium, such as leafy greens, fortified plant-based milk, and certain fish.
✅ Tip
Explore lactose-free dairy alternatives like almond milk and lactose-free yogurt to maintain calcium intake.
Foods not to eat
- High-Lactose Dairy Products: Avoid or limit milk, regular yogurt, and soft cheeses, which can be high in lactose.
- Processed Foods with Hidden Lactose: Be cautious with processed foods that may contain hidden lactose, such as baked goods, salad dressings, and processed meats.
- Creamy Sauces and Soups: Limit creamy sauces and soups made with traditional dairy, and opt for lactose-free alternatives or substitutions.
- Lactose-Containing Desserts: Avoid desserts that contain milk, cream, or lactose-containing ingredients.
- Milk Chocolate: Choose dark chocolate or chocolate labeled as lactose-free, as milk chocolate may contain lactose.
- Regular Buttermilk: Avoid traditional buttermilk, but consider cultured buttermilk alternatives if well-tolerated.
- Condensed Milk: Steer clear of condensed milk, as it is high in lactose; use alternatives in recipes if needed.
- Raw Milk: Avoid raw milk, as it contains higher levels of lactose compared to pasteurized milk.
Main benefits
The 7-Day Meal Plan For Lactose Intolerance is designed to minimize lactose intake for individuals with lactose intolerance. This plan includes lactose-free alternatives and emphasizes foods that are naturally low in lactose. By providing a variety of nutrient-dense options, the plan supports those with lactose intolerance in maintaining a well-balanced and satisfying diet without triggering digestive discomfort.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
A meal plan for lactose intolerance should include dairy-free alternatives that are rich in nutrients. Here are some suitable alternatives:
- Replace almond milk with oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free option with a different flavor profile.
- Instead of using cheese in salads, try avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Switch Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free, probiotic-rich alternative.
- Use hummus instead of cream-based spreads for a nutritious, dairy-free option.
- Substitute butter with olive oil in cooking for a heart-healthy, lactose-free fat.
How to budget on this meal plan
To budget this lactose intolerance meal plan, consider buying non-dairy staples like almond milk and lactose-free yogurt in bulk. Choose whole foods like chicken breasts, salmon, and turkey slices, and cook in larger batches for multiple meals. Opt for seasonal fruits and vegetables to save costs. Incorporate more affordable protein sources like eggs, tofu, and black beans. Homemade granola can be a cost-effective alternative to store-bought versions. Buy brown rice, quinoa, and gluten-free pasta in bulk. Consider making your own marinara sauce and salad dressings to cut costs. Lastly, prioritize versatile ingredients like olive oil, mixed nuts, and peanut butter that can be used in various meals.
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Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Enjoy these lactose-free snacks for a healthy diet:
- Fruit smoothies with almond milk
- Lactose-free yogurt with berries
- Almonds and walnuts
- Gluten-free crackers with hummus
- Oatmeal with banana
- Rice cakes with peanut butter
- Fresh vegetable sticks
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For those with lactose intolerance, lactose-free alternatives are key. Water remains the best choice for hydration. Almond, soy, and rice milks are great dairy-free options. Herbal teas, such as chamomile and peppermint, are soothing and lactose-free. Coconut water is a hydrating, lactose-free alternative, rich in electrolytes.
How to get even more nutrients?
For those with lactose intolerance, avoiding lactose doesn't mean skimping on calcium or other dairy-associated nutrients. Lactose-free milk and dairy alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milks can be good substitutes. These individuals should ensure they get enough calcium and vitamin D from fortified foods or supplements. Lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables should round out the diet to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients.
Meal plan suggestions
7-Day Meal Plan for Lactose Intolerance
Day 1
- Breakfast: Overnight oats made with almond milk, chia seeds, and topped with berries
- Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olive oil dressing
- Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and roasted asparagus
- Snack: Rice cakes with almond butter
Calories: 1800 Fat: 65g Carbs: 210g Protein: 100g
Day 2
- Breakfast: Smoothie with lactose-free yogurt, banana, spinach, and protein powder
- Lunch: Quinoa bowl with black beans, corn, avocado, and salsa
- Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with broccoli, carrots, and brown rice
- Snack: Mixed nuts and dried fruits
Calories: 1900 Fat: 70g Carbs: 220g Protein: 90g
Day 3
- Breakfast: Lactose-free Greek yogurt with granola and sliced strawberries
- Lunch: Turkey and avocado wrap with a gluten-free tortilla
- Dinner: Grilled shrimp with quinoa and sautéed spinach
- Snack: Hummus with cucumber and carrot sticks
Calories: 1850 Fat: 65g Carbs: 210g Protein: 100g
Day 4
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and lactose-free cheese
- Lunch: Quinoa salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and balsamic vinaigrette
- Dinner: Baked chicken breast with sweet potato wedges and green beans
- Snack: Fresh fruit salad
Calories: 1900 Fat: 70g Carbs: 220g Protein: 95g
Day 5
- Breakfast: Peanut butter and banana smoothie with almond milk
- Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of gluten-free crackers
- Dinner: Grilled steak with quinoa and roasted Brussels sprouts
- Snack: Dark chocolate squares
Calories: 2000 Fat: 75g Carbs: 230g Protein: 100g
Day 6
- Breakfast: Almond flour pancakes with maple syrup and mixed berries
- Lunch: Grilled vegetable and quinoa-stuffed bell peppers
- Dinner: Baked cod with lemon-dill sauce, quinoa, and steamed asparagus
- Snack: Rice pudding made with almond milk
Calories: 1950 Fat: 70g Carbs: 220g Protein: 95g
Day 7
- Breakfast: Avocado and tomato on gluten-free toast
- Lunch: Shrimp and quinoa stir-fry with mixed vegetables
- Dinner: Turkey meatballs with marinara sauce, gluten-free spaghetti, and a side salad
- Snack: Lactose-free yogurt with a sprinkle of gluten-free granola
Calories: 1900 Fat: 70g Carbs: 210g Protein: 95g
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.
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⚠️ Keep in mind
As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.