Can milk allergy cause diarrhea?

Do you avoid milk and milk products because you believe you have a milk allergy or lactose intolerance? Learn the difference and what to do if you are really allergic to milk.

What is the difference between a milk allergy and lactose intolerance?

A milk allergy is an immune response to the proteins contained in milk. The milk proteins cause your immune system to respond, resulting in a range of symptoms.

Lactose intolerance defines your body’s sensitivity to lactose, a natural sugar present in milk. It is not an allergy, and your immune system is not involved.If you are lactose intolerant, your body does not produce enough lactase, an enzyme that aids in the breakdown of lactose.

Your doctor can help you identify whether you have a milk allergy or lactose intolerance.

What are the symptoms of a milk allergy?

The symptoms of a milk allergy might appear immediately or hours after drinking milk or eating a product containing milk. The following are some of the most prevalent symptoms:

stomach pains, flatulence (gas), diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea
rash, hives, eczema, red and itchy skin
nasal congestion, runny nose, coughing, and wheezing (trouble breathing)
Eye, face, lip, throat, and tongue swelling

A milk allergy may be fatal in rare circumstances.

Lactose intolerance may also result in stomach pains, gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. Rash, hives, runny nose, coughing, and swelling, on the other hand, are NOT indications of lactose intolerance.

Will my child outgrow their milk allergy?

Up to 4% of newborns are allergic to milk, and many of them will outgrow their allergy by the age of three.

What should I look for on a food package if I have a milk allergy?

Milk-containing items must be prominently labeled under stricter Canadian regulations. If it includes milk, the ingredient list will state “contains: milk.”Another helpful strategy to avoid eating items containing milk or other hidden sources of milk is to read the contents on food packages.

AVOID eating the food if you read:

“milk” in the ingredients list
on the food box, the phrases “may contain milk” or “may contain traces of milk”

Avoid any of these other names for milk and milk ingredients:

casein, caseinate, rennet casein
curds
delactosed or demineralized whey
hydrolyzed casein, hydrolyzed milk protein
lactalbumin, lactalbumin phosphate
lactate/lactose
lactoferrin
lactoglobulin
Opta™, Simplesse® (fat replacers)
whey, whey protein concentrate

Be aware of these foods that contain or may contain milk or milk protein.

Brown sugar
Candy
Caramel colouring/flavouring
Casein in wax coated fresh fruits and vegetables
Crackers
Egg substitutes
Coffee flavoring, coffee whitener, and nondairy creamer
Glazes, nougat
High protein flour
Meat products such as canned tuna, deli meats, hot dogs, pâtés, and sausages
Potatoes (instant, mashed, or scalloped), French fries, and potato chips
Seasonings
Snack foods – like fruit bars, granola bars
Tofu

How can I get enough calcium and vitamin D without milk?

Calcium and vitamin D may be obtained from different foods. You may, for example, consume fortified soy beverages.One cup of fortified soy beverage has the same amount of calcium and vitamin D as one cup of milk. To acquire adequate vitamin D, drink at least 2 cups of fortified soy beverage every day. Make a smoothie using soy milk, such as this delightful ground up frog smoothie with berries and spinach. Other calcium-rich foods include almonds, tinned salmon (with bones), legumes, and bok choy. More calcium-containing foods may be found under Food Sources of Calcium.

You might also take calcium and vitamin D supplements.Consult a dietician to see whether a supplement is good for you.

Can I drink goats or sheep milk if I have a milk allergy?

Because the protein contained in goat and sheep milk is identical to that found in cow’s milk, most individuals who are allergic to milk will also react to these forms of milk. If you are unsure, see your allergist.

Tips on following a milk-free diet

Every time you go shopping, read the ingredient labels. Food manufacturers may modify their recipes or utilize new ingredients on occasion.
If you have any queries concerning their items, contact the manufacturer. Many food containers have a phone number.
Be well-informed. Sign up for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) free email notification service for “Food Recalls and Allergy Alerts.”
Don’t risk anything. Avoid items that lack an ingredient list or include substances you are unfamiliar with.
Cross-contamination may occur when a little quantity of milk gets into food while preparing or handling other food items.
Milk is not included in foods labeled “vegan,” but always check the label to be sure. Find vegan soups and sauces.
When dining out, be sure to notify the waiter of your allergy. Call ahead to find out which meals are free of milk.

How can a dietitian help?

A nutritionist can help you plan allergen-free and nutritional meals and snacks. If you are allergic to milk, a nutritionist can ensure that you are receiving adequate calcium and vitamin D. If your newborn or kid is allergic to milk, a nutritionist can advise you on weaning and which milk alternatives to provide your child in order to promote their growth and development. Contact a dietician today!

Bottom line

If you are allergic to milk, you may still consume a healthy and balanced diet. Make an effort to consume calcium and vitamin D-rich foods. Don’t take any risks if you’re not sure whether a product includes milk or milk components.It is essential to read the ingredient list every time to prevent acquiring a milk allergy.