1. Milk Allergy Basics
A milk allergy is an immune system reaction to the protein component of milk. It is unclear exactly what causes this response. Possibilities may include a genetic link and/or an under-developed gastrointestinal tract. Milk protein allergies are classified based on their relationship to an immune system element called Immunoglobulin E (or IgE). Allergies that are linked to IgE often cause symptoms much quicker than those that are not. Milk allergies almost always present before a childâs first birthday.
2. Allergy Versus Intolerance
Is lactose intolerance just another term for milk allergy? You might think so, but intolerances and allergies are two very different things. Lactose intolerance is not an immune reaction, but rather a gastrointestinal disorder. It occurs when a person is lacking sufficient amounts of a digestive enzyme called lactase. When there is not enough of this enzyme, a person may experience stomach upset and diarrhea. Lactose intolerance is actually quite common, especially as we grow older.
3. Incidence of Milk Protein Allergy
True milk protein allergies are much less common than lactose intolerance. Many children with a milk allergy as infants will actually grow out of it as they get older. According to researchers at Montreal Children's Hospital, approximately 2.5% of children are affected. They also found that more than half of the children were able to tolerate milk by age one and almost 90% could by age 3.
4. Diagnostic Tests
If you suspect that your child may have a milk protein allergy, the first step in diagnosis should be a visit to their pediatrician. The doctor will first obtain a detailed medical history, including the childâs symptoms, whether they are formula- or breast-fed, and family history. The next step will likely be testing a stool sample for blood and to rule-out any bacteria or toxins. Blood may also be drawn to look for anemias and indicators of infection. The doctor may then choose to do special testing via skin prick tests or âfood challengesâ. In these tests, a small amount of the suspected allergen is given either orally or through the skin to check the bodyâs response. Typically, though, the doctor will simply trial the child on a partially-digested formula and then monitor for symptom improvement.
5. Calcium Intake
Having a child with a milk allergy definitely makes meeting their calcium needs a challenge. Taking a calcium supplement may help, but doesn't guarantee they'll meet their daily requirement. If you're child's milk allergy persists as they grow older, it's important to encourage intake of non-dairy sources of calcium. Examples include fortified orange juice and cereal for breakfast, almonds and dried fruit for snacks, and then salmon and dark green vegetables for dinner.
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