I went through a "phase" where I was lactose intolerant. I found a cheese product in the dairy section that was lactose free. It looked like shredded cheddar cheese and was surprisingly good baked into recipes. It had Spanish on the label too. I don't recall the name. Lucky for me my body chemistry changed and I am now able to eat dairy. It hides in EVERYTHING! Beware of bread....I used tortilla as wraps. Sorbet for dessert instead of ice cream.
I ate a lot of fresh fruit, veggies & salads with special dressings. BBQ or roasted meat and not any casseroles. DD worked at a gourmet pizza place and made me cheese free pizza. The crust was OK for me.
I feel for you! It is time consuming to figure it out and read labels.
Check your library-I found a lactose free cookbook. It helped with ideas.
Good luck.