One of the most important aspects of treating a milk protein allergy is diet modification, according to the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Because symptoms are only triggered by consuming dairy products, eliminating dairy will prevent any adverse reactions. A milk protein allergy is most common among young children, but can affect adults as well. As with any food-related allergy, you are at a higher risk of developing a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylactic shock, if you consume dairy products.
General Information
All milk allergies are related to the proteins found in dairy products. You may be allergic to whey protein or casein proteins, or both with a milk allergy. If you're diagnosed with a milk allergy, your immune system mistakes these proteins as a dangerous substance, causing the body to defend itself. Just like when a virus or bacteria enters your body, the immune system creates specific antibodies to fight off the substance. With a milk allergy, the immune system creates immunoglobulin E, or IgE antibodies, that attempt to ward off the proteins, according to KidsHealth. This causes other chemicals to be produced, leading to common symptoms.
Inclusion
Dairy products provide a significant amount of calcium and vitamin D for most people. If you eliminate dairy completely from your diet, you may need to take supplements or increase calcium and vitamin D-rich foods, such as orange juice, broccoli and green leafy vegetables in your diet. KidsHealth states that you can eat foods that are clearly labeled as "vegan." Vegan foods do not contain any animal by-products, such as eggs or milk. The Lucile Packard Children's Hospital recommends buying kosher products, because they are free of dairy.
Exclusion
You need to avoid all products that contain milk or milk byproducts. For many food products, it is not obvious that they contain milk. For example, even if a food or beverage is labeled "nondairy" or "milk-free," it still may contain milk proteins that can cause an allergic reaction, according to MayoClinic.com. Some ingredients to avoid are casein, whey, hydrosolate, artificial butter flavor, protein powders, non-dairy coffee creamers, candy and fried foods. All packaged foods are required by federal law to state if they contain any milk proteins.
Substitution
Substitute milk with other alternatives that are primarily made from soy, rice or almonds. Most of these products are fortified with vitamin D and calcium to ensure the proper daily intake of these essential nutrients.
Member Comments