I've hijacked too many threads by ranting on the subject and feel like the subject deserves its own thread - I searched and did not see one.

How do you cope? I find the lactase pills help but not always.

After >35 years of feeling sick during/after every meal, I was correctly diagnosed as lactose intolerant. My previous gastro doctor diagnosed me with IBS and prescribed pills that helped 75% of the time (slowed down my digestion).

I have learned to do without cheese. Sorry, but I can't find a non-dairy cheese that melts properly. I miss real pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches and ordering the cheese plate for dessert.

I have learned to inform servers early while ordering. Most have been helpful. You do have to spell it out for some - no dairy means no milk, no butter, no cheese, no cream, eggs are not dairy, etc.

When grated cheese is offered for pasta or salad, I ask the server to give my share to Mrs BamaVol. When buying deli sandwiches, I remove the cheese and add it to Mrs BamaVol's sandwich. If I'm alone, of course I order without.

I discovered lactose free ice cream and milk. I am grateful. Soy, almond, coconut and rice milk are okay, but have their own flavor. Never make mashed potatos with coconut milk.

I know there are non-dairy and lactose free yogurts and cottage cheese. They are hard to find in the small towns where I have lived the last 5 years.

It's a cheesy world we live in. What are your experiences?