An allergy to dairy products--a condition frequently referred to as lactose intolerance--occurs when the body doesn't produce enough lactase, an enzyme needed to break down the lactose present in dairy products. Although over-the-counter lactase supplements may help alleviate symptoms associated with lactose intolerance, many people with this condition may have to abstain from dairy products entirely.
Diarrhea
People who are lactose intolerant may experience diarrhea after eating certain dairy products, such as milk or cheese. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this symptom typically develops within 30 minutes of ingesting a food that has lactose. If you suspect that you may be lactose intolerant, consider contacting your doctor for further testing.
Nausea or Vomiting
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, certain people with this condition may experience nausea or vomiting after ingesting a dairy product. Ice cream, butter, yogurt and some types of bread and cereal may contain lactose, which is difficult to digest for people with this condition. If you experience nausea or vomiting after consuming dairy products, contact your doctor for additional care.
Stomach Cramps
If you are lactose intolerant, you may experience stomach cramps within 30 minutes to two hours following ingestion of dairy products, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). The severity of stomach cramps may vary depending upon the amount of dairy products that were ingested. If you think you may be lactose intolerant, contact your doctor to get additional testing.
Bloating or Gas
People who are lactose intolerant may experience excessive bloating or gas after eating dairy products, according to the website WomensHealth.gov. These symptoms typically occur within the stomach or intestine and can be uncomfortable for some people. The severity of gas or bloating may range from mild to moderate, depending upon the amount of dairy products that were ingested. If you believe you may be lactose intolerant, consider discussing testing options with your doctor.
