Lactose Intolerance Or Milk Allergy- Know the difference

Many times you must have met a child, with symptoms of discomfort after consuming dairy. Sometimes, these signs are seen within a year of birth or at adolescence. But do you know that Lactose Intolerance and Milk Allergy are two different types of conditions with the similar symptoms that one may be suffering from? Let’s know more

– LACTOSE INTOLERANCE

– MILK ALLERGY

LACTOSE INTOLERANCE MILK ALLERGY Involves enzymatic disorder. Results due to impaired immune system. The component responsible for discomfort is “MILK SUGAR- LACTOSE.” The milk portion responsible is “MILK PROTEIN – CASEIN”. The gut lacks enzyme- LACTASE, for digesting lactose. Body’s immune system treats CASEIN as a foreign element and starts working against it. The undigested lactose results in the production of gases, & thus, the symptoms. In response to CASEIN intake, the immune system starts producing HISTAMINE, & thus, the symptoms. Can occur at any age. Mostly encountered, within first 3 years of age. One can tolerate dairy products to a certain quantity. The body cannot accept even traces of milk proteins, in any form. Could not be fatal. Is fatal as can produce life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis. SYMPTOMS include- Nausea, bloating, loose stools, watery diarrhea or gas. SYMPTOMS include- Rashes, stomach upset, vomiting & diarrhea.

Dietary Advice

As one has to be restricted or taken off from dairy, this two micro-nutrients CALCIUM & VITAMIN D, must be provided from non – dairy or supplemental sources.

Although unlike milk allergy, a person with lactose tolerance can have a limited quantity of milk or products, depending upon body’s capacity, but adequate amounts of non–dairy rich stuff has to be incorporated in both cases to meet the demands. Few examples are:

Bone broth

Fish with bones, oysters

Dark green veggies low in oxalic acid like kale, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, etc.

Figs, banana, apple.

Almond or soy milk.

Sesame seeds.

Tofu.

Egg yolks.

Mushrooms.

Fortified juices.

So, having Lactose Intolerance Or Milk Allergy is not end of the road for those who are suffering because of either of these. There are several options in diet & nutrition available to make up for the nutrients which one has to miss because of being allergic to them.