I have a new gastro-doctor. About 4-5 years ago I was diagnosed with IBS (after suffering my whole adult life) and have controlled it with daily medication since. My new doc says maybe it's not IBS, but lactose intolerance. Easy to discover at home, he says.

I went 2 weeks with no dairy. You really have to scrutinize labels, but it can be done. Then I loaded up on my favorite ice cream and waited for the results. I didn't have to wait long. So now I buy Lactaid milk and cottage cheese and take a lactaid (contains lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose) pill with any other dairy I consume.

The benefits: I've cut a lot of fat out of my diet by eliminating most cheese, sour cream and ice cream, I've cut out a $92/month prescription, I'm more alert to what's in my food since I read every label on prepared foods, look at menus carefully and nutrition info online.

Downside: My fart production is off a good 90%. Mrs BV is a happier camper, but I miss them.

My biggest problem is finding any lactose-free dairy products besides milk and cottage cheese. Any help?