If you have a milk allergy, you should avoid milk and milk products. This means avoiding cow's milk, as well as products containing casein, a milk derivative, which can be found in unexpected places such as canned tuna, sausage, or non-dairy products. When ordering food in restaurants, always ask about the ingredients.
Milk allergies are different from lactose intolerance. A milk allergy is a reaction to the milk protein that triggers an immune response, while lactose intolerance is a digestive problem caused by the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk.
Here are some things to remember:
- If you have a milk allergy, even a small amount of milk can trigger a reaction.
- Reactions can range from mild, like a rash or hives, to severe, such as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition.
- Read food labels carefully to identify any milk or casein ingredients.
- Be aware that milk can be used as an ingredient in many processed foods, so always ask about ingredients when ordering food in restaurants.
If you suspect you or your child may have a milk allergy, consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.
