It’s a known fact that milk and other dairy products are a source of protein and calcium which is highly essential for growth of bones. But if your body reacts in an unpleasant manner when you have milk then, you are allergic to milk. Many people confuse it with lactose intolerance also, which is a bit different from milk allergy. So first it is important to know the difference between allergy and intolerance.
In intolerance, a specific part of the body has a problem with a certain substance which is not absorbed or digested well. People suffering from lactose intolerance can complain about stomach pains. Many a time people don’t get any symptoms for a long period of time. There are mild symptoms like lethargy and stomach pain which are neglected.
In milk allergy, the reaction is fast and evident. One can very well make out that something is wrong. Here the milk is not the culprit but the immune system which gives a response by acting negatively against it. The immune system treats milk as a toxin and tries to flush it out. People suffer from inflation and redness in various parts of the body. In extreme cases major body organs stop working and there is risk of loss of life also. Another symptom also includes breathing problem caused due swelling of throat. People suffering from this allergy need to take care of what they eat. Cow’s milk, cheese, yogurt and even ice creams should be completely avoided. Even processed foods which have lactalbium should not be consumed. Don’t be under the impression that your body would not react to low fat milk.
Is there any cure for milk allergy?
The answer is yes. Milk allergy like other allergies can be cured by “immunotherapy”. In this process the body is desensitized by gradual reintroduction of the substance to which the body is allergic to. Small amount of milk is injected into the blood stream to which the body should not have any reaction. Then with time the amount is increased till the body starts giving a normal response. Till you are taking the treatment, the best thing to do is staying away from milk and other dairy products. You can go for other alternatives like soy milk which is made out of soy bean. It is equally beneficial and similar to taste. Goat’s milk or powered milk also can be used as alternative to milk.
Our lifestyle can be hugely affected by milk allergy but with certain precautions and remedies it can be taken care off.
You must log in to post a comment.