Cow’s Milk Allergy

Lactose Intolerance vs. Milk Allergy

For most adults, being that Lactose Intolerance is a condition more prevalent as we grow older, they mistakenly assume they are allergic to milk but actually they are just missing an enzyme in their digestive system which helps to break down the milk sugars or lactose which is in all milk products. If your body is finding it difficult to tolerate milk sugars you will notice abdominal pains, gas, bloating and possibly diarrhea. Fortunately though, there are digestive aids available on today's market which will help your body to break down and digest these milk sugars, thereby alleviating all of these uncomfortable symptoms.

A milk allergy though is an immune system response to the two types of milk proteins which are found in all milk products, either casein or whey. A true allergy trigger can be attributed to either one of these proteins or some people can actually be sensitive to both.

Milk though is a very important dietary source of protein, calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12. All of these are needed to promote strong bones and healthy blood cells in the human body. Because of your inability to consume milk or any dairy products though, it is vitally important you speak with a registered dietician to get an outline on a safe menu plan. This may include such foods as canned salmon, sesame seeds, almonds or Brazil nuts plus many more. Each of these is an excellent dietary substitute that can be used for your own body's safety.

Hidden Sources of Dairy

Processed foods on today's market include many hidden sources of milk proteins. Get yourself in the habit of reading and understanding food ingredient labels. Other than the obvious products like milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream and butter etc., start watching for any word that contains a form of casein (sodium caseinate) or the prefix lacto (lactose or lactoglobulin). The words whey or whey protein may often show up on a food label also. All of these signify that a milk protein is present.

A trip to the grocery store or a restaurant can be a disaster in the making if you are not careful and observant. Many places will slice luncheon meats on the same equipment as cheese. Or it is not uncommon for restaurants to add a pat of butter to a grilled steak to enhance the flavors of the beef. A complete miss-conception in today's marketplace occurs when the consumer assumes "dairy-free" means no milk products. Most of these products all contain casein. Check the label carefully.

Fortunately, a cow's milk allergy is one of the easiest conditions to find readily and easily available substitutions that can be used for all of your cooking and baking needs.