Creatine does not contain any dairy proteins and is therefore considered safe for people with a milk allergy. Creatine is commonly used in beverages that promote enhanced athletic performance. If the beverage contains milk and you've been diagnosed with a dairy allergy, you need to avoid consuming that beverage. Creatine has not been evaluated by the FDA for purity, safety and effectiveness and should therefore only be used under the direction of a physician. If you develop allergy symptoms using creatine, discontinue its use until you can be seen by your doctor.
Creatine and Milk Allergies
Creatine is a naturally occurring chemical in the human body that is produced by the liver, kidneys and pancreas, and is stored in the muscles, which aids in muscle growth. The substance is also found in meat and fish, which is used to create creatine in a supplement. Milk allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to casein and whey proteins found in cow's milk. There is no cure for milk allergies, and the only effective way to prevent an allergic reaction is avoid all products that contain even a small amount of milk proteins. Creatine does not contain milk and is considered safe with milk allergies.
Allergy Symptoms
If you develop allergy symptoms from using creatine, it is likely you may have an allergy to the supplement or an ingredient in the supplement. Common allergy symptoms include hives, skin rashes, facial swelling, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain and nasal congestion. If you develop one or more of these symptoms, call your doctor right away. Although unlikely, you may develop anaphylaxis, a severe reaction that could be life-threatening.
Allergy Considerations
If you develop an allergic reaction to a product that contains creatine, call the manufacturer to determine if the product contains any dairy. If it does not contain dairy, talk with your doctor about other allergy possibilities. You may be allergic to creatine in a supplement form or you may have a fish or meat allergy. Because most creatine supplements come from fish and meat, the proteins and carbohydrates from those animals may be present in the supplement.
Testing
If you doctor suspects that you are experiencing an allergic reaction when you use creatine, she may recommend allergy testing. Allergy testing uses a tiny amount of a substance to determine if your body creates immunoglobulin E antibodies when it is introduced. Immunoglobulin E antibodies are only created during an allergic reaction.
