I have discovered that fat free coffee creamer is gluten and lactose free. I use coffee creamer as a substitute for cream or milk in my chowders and any soups calling for dairy.
Coffee creamer is often used as a substitute for milk and other liquids in recipes. If the creamer is used in recipes that are not intended to provide important nutrients such as protein, calcium, vitamins, etc., then the substitution is not a problem.
However, if the creamer is used in recipes that are intended to provide the nutrients in milk, such as casseroles, soups, cereals, desserts, etc., then nutrient alternative additions to the diet should be considered, especially for growing children, pregnant women, people recovering from illnesses etc.