Are you allergic to milk?

One or more of the proteins found in cow’s milk or dairy products could cause what we call a "milk allergy" which is a potentially deadly allergic reaction. It is different from milk intolerance which is a sensitivity to the sugar found in milk products and does not involve the immune system. The common complaints include stomach upset and diarrhea. However symptoms of a milk allergy often include itchiness, rash, hives, stomach cramps, nausea and difficulty in breathing.

Sometimes the reaction can result in potentially life–threatening anaphylactic shock. The difficult part is that it is impossible to know whether a person with a milk allergy is likely to have mild or severe symptoms after consuming the allergens. Therefore people with milk allergies must try their best to avoid all foods containing milk proteins. Immediate medical attention must be sought in the case of accidental exposure.

Owing to the large number of products containing milk proteins, sensitive persons must becareful of what they eat and come into contact with. A good example is milk proteins that are found in a variety of substances, particularly dairy products such as butters and cheeses.

It is noteworthy that removing milk completely from the diet can cause certain dietary concerns because milk is a good source of several vitamins and minerals – particularly calcium. Hence it is a good idea to consult your doctor to see how you could properly supplement your diets with additional minerals and vitamins which are missing.