How do I know if I am lactose intolerant or if I have a true milk allergy?
Did you know that 8 foods account for 90% of food allergies? Milk is one of those foods.
The first thing to understand is that intolerance is not an allergy. A true milk allergy is an immune system response. The immune system reacts in an abnormal way to a usually harmless substance. The body then produces an antibody in response. Chemical changes in the body are responsible for the allergic reaction.
Allergies and their symptoms can vary widely from mild to severe. Some people have allergic reactions that are discomforting but, not alarming however, it is important to note that in severe cases food allergies can be fatal. Some more common symptoms of milk allergies are: cramps, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing, and hives.
People who have true milk allergies are allergic to the milk protein, and that protein is still present when the lactose is removed.
The only way to truly avoid these symptoms are to avoid milk and products that contain milk. In order to avoid milk and milk products you need to become a label detective. According to the FDA’s website as of January 1, 2006 foods covered by the FDA labeling laws that contain milk must be labeled in plain English to declare that it contains milk. However, the FDA’s website also lets us know it is important to know how to read a label for milk ingredients. Products exempt from plain English labeling rules: foods that are not regulated by the FDA, cosmetics and personal care products, prescription and over‐the‐counter medications or supplements, pet food, toys and crafts.
This article is purely informational and not intended to give any medical advice. You should seek the advice of a medical professional such as a physician for medical advice.