Lactose Intolerance Or Dairy Allergy? Definitions Testing 7 Benefits Of Dairy Free Living
If you’re someone who is either lactose intolerant or has a dairy allergy, you’ll know only too well the frustration of reading food packaging in the supermarket to avoid buying lactose or dairy, which can pop up in unexpected places. Those of us who are diagnosed with a food allergy or a food intolerance, who start this time-consuming practice of reading labels, are initially very surprised to see what ingredients are included in some foods. Naturally the same practice has to be adopted when eating out, and those with a lactose intolerance or dairy allergy, can experience some challenges when it comes to eating or drinking in cafes and restaurants.
There are also large numbers of people who are not sure if they have either a food intolerance or allergy, but are experiencing some symptoms that make them feel that it is possible. If you feel any of this describes you or someone you know, then read on to, firstly, understand the differences between food allergies and food intolerances, secondly, how to test for them and what are seven benefits of dairy free living.
Food Allergy Overview
A food allergy is when a person’s immune system, by mistake, identifies a protein in the food as harmful and the immune system will trigger an allergic reaction, as it mistakenly thinks that the system is under attack. The scope of allergic reactions to food ranges from mild to very severe. In the case of a food allergy, Immunoglobin E (IgE) antibodies are present.
Food Intolerance Overview
Food intolerance is a negative reaction or a food hypersensitivity to some type of food, additive or drink. Symptoms will occur, which can often be delayed, and can happen in one or more organs of the body. To a food intolerant person the reactions can be as debilitating as some food allergy reactions. Both will depend on the person and the reaction. However in the case of food intolerance, which is non-allergic food hypersensitivity, Immunoglobin E (IgE) antibodies are not present.
Dairy Allergy
A dairy allergy occurs when a person has an allergic reaction to one of the many proteins contained in milk, however the most common culprit is alpha S1-casein. In the case of a dairy allergy the symptoms can be similar to lactose intolerance but there is also the possibility of anaphylactic reactions, allergic colitis, gastric distress, skin rashes, hives, atopic dermatitis, a wheeze, oral irritations, headaches, migraines etc.
Lactose Intolerance
In the case of lactose intolerance the body is not producing enough lactase to be able to digest the lactose in milk and other food or drink products. Some of the symptoms which are considered common are cramps, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, rumbling tummy and vomiting, especially in adolescents.
Lactose Tolerance Test
The test will look at how well your body can break down lactose (milk sugar) in the intestines.
Testing For A Dairy Allergy
The best way to test for a dairy allergy is to cut out all dairy for 2 weeks, and if you have an allergy you’ll notice the difference, in some cases just after a few days, but some people need 10 days to 2 weeks.
If it seems that dairy free living will benefit you, then it helps psychologically to know about these seven benefits of dairy free living.
During the transition period it is good to focus on the fact that living dairy free means:
1. Anxiety and stress will decrease
2. Energy levels will increase
3. Weight can often become healthier – some find they lose unwanted weight far more easily
4. Some tests have shown that hyperactivity and even autism may be improved by dairy free living
5. You should no longer feeling nausea
6. Hormones can become more balanced in some cases, which helps for better moods and general well being
7. Reduced cholesterol and sodium levels in the bloodstream, better for health
If you have a lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, it is great to know where you can find alternatives when out and about. Victus Restaurants Harrogate offers delicious drinks such as soya milk cappuccinos which make a wonderful alternative. Why not drop in and find out for yourself!
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