Suggestions for the lactose intolerant?

[HunnyPots]

My poor DD (15) cannot tolerate even the least little bit of dairy products and it is so hard to eat out, as so much restaurant food is full of cheese, butter, or cream. And many fried foods are prepared with milk in the batter. Even hot dogs can contain milk or whey!
So, my question is, what are our chances of getting her a meal in WDW that won't ruin her vacation?

 

[ZPT1022]

I have GERD, and I am not supposed to eat too much spicy food or anything- basically a bland diet. I also have problems with a lot of dairy. If you let the restaurants know, they will make something that accomodates your needs. If you have PS's already, call about a week before and talk to the chef at the restaurant and tell him/her your concerns, they will work with you anytime, but can offer more when given more notice. I found out the hard way on our last trip when I got sick every day and had a really bad go of it. Good luck to your DD!

 

[mrsapalm]

I can relate.... I'm lactose intolerant (mildly), have GERD, and IBS!!! I survive on Imodium, Tums, and fiber. I splurge a little on the grease and dairy, but I know which things I definitely cannot get away with. I also drink tons of water to keep my system flushed, it seems to help a bit. The best thing is that there is just so much food to choose from, I never feel like I'm "missing out" on something just because my tummy is cranky. Good luck!
-MrsAPalm

 

[anniet]

I have a good friend who is the same way, cannot eat ANY dairy whey or anything that might remotely contain lactose. She's been to Disney twice, once on her honeymoon, and once after and I believe they were very accomodating for her. We go out for lunch or dinner a lot too, and pretty much any restaurant, if they know, will be happy to make substitutions.

Another good idea might be to stop by one of supermarkets and pick up fruit or snacks you know she can eat and bring those into the parks with you.

Good luck and have a great trip!

 

[I <3 Eeyore]

Lactaid tablets save me every time I eat out. You never know what's going to be made with milk products. Not sure if it works for everyone but it works miracles for me.

 

[chell]

HunnyPots - Has your daughter been tested for food allergies? Could she be allergic, not just intolerant? Either way, if you plan ahead where you want to dine call any of the WDW phone numbers and ask for the direct phone number to each restaurant you want to eat at. They will be more than happy to give you this information, especially if you explain your situation.

I have a few severe food allergies and must be VERY careful. When I am planning a trip to WDW I check out menus for all of the restaurants I am interested in. Since I am a pretty picky eater anyway I am usually able to go ahead and decide what I will be eating when visiting each restaurant. Then I schedule all of my meals, making PS where available. When I make my PS I inform them of my allergies. They always give me the direct phone number and ask me to call 3 days before my PS date to speak directly with the chef. Then, I call and talk with the chef or whoever is responsible for food allergy matters 3 days before my visit to that restaurant. Also, when I check in for my PS I mention my allergies (usually they beat me to it). Shortly after we are seated the chef comes out to talk with me and offer his/her ideas. The first time it was rather embarrassing because I felt like everyone was looking at my trying to figure out why I was so special to have the chef visit me. Then I thought about the consequences and decided that it was worth it. And we are all special anyway!

All of the chefs I have dealt with have been WONDERFUL. They have never acted like it was too much work for them or that I was causing them any problems. Sorry for the long post, but I thought I would give you all the information I could.

But to answer you question, with a little planning you should not have any problems!

 

[tlt]

If it is TRUE lactose intolerance (and not allergic problems or IBS) the lactaid pills will and do work. We buy the generic ones at Walmart because they are cheaper than the original Lactaid brand. Chew 2-4 right before eating (as the instructions say) and they will work. If they don't...she should get checked for something else (ie: IBS)

 

[The Disney Bunch]

I can relate! I am allergic to dairy products (can't even touch dairy without getting sick) - I have never had a difficult time at WDW -

Just let your server know that your daughter has a problem and ask them to check any foods -Some servers will suggest items or would tell me something I ordered has dairy in it- More often than not, the chef has come out to talk to me and sometimes I have had special meals made which were better than what was on the menu! And not at a bad price. And I was never made to feel that I was asking for anything out of the ordinary.

Also check out the menus for where you know you are going to eat so that she can have an idea of what is being served ahead of time and can plan.

Disney is really one place that she shouldn't worry about - as long as she (or you) lets the server know, she should be fine.