The Prevalence of Self-reported Lactose Intolerance and the Consumption of Dairy Foods Among African American Adults Are Less Than Expected

Dairy food, calcium, and vitamin D intake in African Americans and the general population are below US recommendations. Deficiencies of these nutrients are associated with chronic diseases that disproportionately affect African Americans. In the United States, dairy foods are the primary source of calcium and vitamin D, and lactose intolerance can be a significant barrier to dairy food intake. However, self-described lactose intolerance is less than commonly reported in African American populations. Low dairy intake may reflect concerns about lactose intolerance, other factors such as learned food habits and cultural preferences. Nutrition recommendations for African Americans and the general population should focus on the health benefits of dairy foods, provide culturally sensitive dietary options, and strategies to increase tolerance.