Loading... Dairy sensitivity: Lactose intolerance or milk protein (casein) allergy?
Given that humans are the only mammals that continue drinking milk after being weaned, it is not surprising thata vast number of people have lactose intolerance to some degree (according to some estimates up to 75%).
Lactose Intolerance is a person’s inability to digest Lactose, the sugar found in milk, which is broken down by an enzyme called lactase. Some of the symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence and malabsorption, and are known to increase with age.
Allergic reactions to casein, the protein in cow’s milk may cause symptoms including hives, eczema, vomiting, asthma and diarrhea.
Both problems can be identified with an elimination diet. While there is no cure, dairy products can be removed from your diet with no other effects. Since calcium in milk is not in an easily absorbed form to begin with, you can obtain mmore than sufficient calcium in your diet from other food sources. Some children (like our own) have no problem drinking goat’s milk or eating sheep’s milk yogurt, as the protein molecules are different and easier to digest for many people.
