Contrary to common belief, a milk allergy is not the same as lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest a sugar (lactose) found in milk products. Milk allergy refers an allergic reaction to cow’s milk. If you are allergic to cow’s milk, then strict avoidance of milk is the only sure way to prevent a reaction. Goat’s milk is highly cross reactive with cow’s milk so you need to avoid that as well. Soy milk is one option that you may try.
The FDA requires food manufacturers to list common food allergens, such as cow’s milk, on food labels. Those who are allergic to cow’s milk should avoid butter, buttermilk, cheese and cream cheese, cottage cheese, custard, pudding, yogurt, and sour cream. Milk products are an important source of calcium and Vitamin D, so it’s important that you substitute other foods rich in these nutrients. Allergic reactions to foods that we eat will usually happen quickly but rarely can be delayed several hours.
Warner W. Carr, M.D.
Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California provides relief from allergies, asthma, sinus problems, chronic cough and other related conditions. Dr. William E. Berger, Dr. Warner W. Carr, Dr. Mark S. Sugar, Dr. Simi Kapoor and Dr. Christina Schwindt together with their staff specialize in allergy and immunology in Southern California.
If you or your child is suffering from a milk allergy, or if you’d like a food allergy evaluation, please call us at (949) 364-2900 to schedule your appointment today. You can also use our online Request an Appointment form to schedule a future appointment.
