What Causes Dairy Allergies and Intolerances?
Although we probably think of lactose from milk as being the main cause of dairy allergies, casein is also a common, although slightly less talked about, dairy allergen. The problem is that both of these substances are included in a variety of foods, besides just milk and cheese, usually for added flavoring or emulsification. Here are just a few of the foods in which casein and lactose can be found: • coffee whiteners • potato chips • cereals • mayonnaise • breath mints • protein bars and powders • processed meats • salad dressings • baby formula • dessert toppings Additionally, dairy by-products may be found in certain over the counter and prescription drugs including vitamins, supplements, lotions, soaps and cosmetics. What is the Difference Between a Dairy Allergy and a Dairy Intolerance? For starters, we need to distinguish between allergies and intolerances, which are two very distinct physiological reactions. Allergies are brought on by the ingestion of normally harmless substanc
