Worries solved

Q:

A friend dropped 10 pounds in four weeks on a keto diet. I’d love to lose my muffin top, but I’m mildly lactose intolerant. Is there a work-around that will give me more menu options?

A:

Keto is a smart choice for fast weight loss since the high-fat, lowcarb diet speeds metabolism and burns 500% more fat than a low-fat diet. While it’s true that foods like heavy cream and full-fat cheeses are ketogenic staples, two tweaks will let you enjoy many keto-approved recipes without triggering stomach trouble.

(1) Sub in coconut cream. The lactose-free alternative whips like dairy, has less than 1 net carb and the highest fat content of any plant-based dairy substitute. And it’s easy to make your own: Chill a can of coconut milk overnight; turn the can upside down to open, pour off the clear liquid and you’re left with pure coconut cream.

(2) Try aged cheeses, like Gouda, Parmesan and blue. Some lactosesensitive folks are able to tolerate these varieties since the longer a cheese ages, the less lactose it contains: A wedge of creamy Brie has 700% less lactose than a slice of American cheese!