Guide to a Milk Protein Allergy Diet

What Is a Milk Protein Allergy?

People who are allergic to milk are allergic to a protein found in the milk. If you’re allergic to this protein, your body sees it and begins to attack it the way it should attack viruses or bacteria. This sets off an allergic reaction.

A milk protein allergy is the most common food allergy in children. According to a study in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, a milk allergy affects 2 to 3 percent of children. Fortunately, many children with a milk allergy will outgrow it before they reach adulthood. Adults who develop the allergy later in life rarely outgrow it.

Symptoms of this reaction depend on how severe your allergy is and how much of the protein you consumed.

The Best Food Allergy Blogs of 2015 »

What Are the Symptoms of a Milk Protein Allergy?

An allergic reaction to milk usually starts within minutes after you consume the milk protein. Some reactions may take several hours. The length of time it takes for your symptoms to appear is usually related to the severity of your allergy.

A person who is highly allergic to milk may develop an anaphylactic response within a few minutes. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• difficulty breathing
• wheezing
• dizziness or fainting
• swollen tongue or throat
• skin reactions, including a rash or hives
• reduced heart rate, including a weak, rapid pulse
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

Less severe, but equally serious allergic reactions may include:

• itching
• skin reactions, including a rash or hives
• difficulty breathing
• coughing
• wheezing
• scratchy, watery eyes
• runny nose
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal cramps

The Do’s and Don’ts of Milk Protein Allergy

A milk allergy is different for each person. Some people may have a severe reaction whenever they consume milk. Others may have a less severe reaction. Some people may only be allergic to liquid milk. Other people may be allergic to every form of milk, even when it’s well cooked in a baked good.

If you or your child has recently been diagnosed with a milk allergy, talk with your doctor about ways to understand the limits of the food allergy. Studies show that minimal exposure to milk may be beneficial for some children and help speed up how quickly they outgrow the allergy. These types of tests should not be undertaken without a doctor’s guidance, however.

Look for Alternative Formulas

Most baby formulas contain a milk product. If your child is diagnosed with a milk allergy, you may need to look for a special type of formula that has been designed for babies with this allergy. Soy-based formulas are also an option. Discuss formula alternatives with your child’s pediatrician.

Try Other Types of Milk

Most people with milk allergy have a reaction to cow’s milk. They may be able to drink or eat foods with other types of milk, however. These include goat’s milk, sheep’s milk, and milk from other mammals.

Try Milk in Baked Goods

A study in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that around 70 to 80 percent of children with milk allergies may actually be able to safely consume baked goods made with milk. Additionally, children who are able to eat baked goods made with milk without having an allergic reaction may outgrow their milk allergies more quickly than children who cannot eat baked goods made with milk.

You should only try to test tolerance to baked goods with the help of a doctor. Undercooked, baked products may still produce an allergic reaction. If your reaction is severe, creating an allergic response could be dangerous or even deadly.

How Is a Milk Protein Allergy Treated?

Most people who have a history of anaphylaxis carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) with them at all times. That’s because an injection of this hormone can help the body recover from the allergic response quickly and safely.

Other medications may be given to people with an anaphylactic reaction and people with less severe allergic reactions. Antihistamines are a common treatment. These medications are designed to seek out the histamines that were produced as a result of the allergy and slowly reduce your body’s reaction. They will also ease the symptoms of the reaction, including itching, watery eyes, and breathing problems.

If you have serious breathing problems, you may need a beta-agonist drug, such as albuterol (AccuNeb, Proventil). This type of inhaled medication can help reduce the inflammation in your airways and make it easier for you to breathe.

Prognosis for Milk Protein Allergy

For people with a milk allergy, prevention is the key. The only way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid milk and the proteins found in it. Milk is a common ingredient in many foods, so this may be difficult at first. Fortunately, many milk alternative products are available, so finding something that works for you may become easier as you begin exploring your options.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

Your doctor and a dietitian can help you understand where milk may hide in foods. Your doctor can also help you understand and test the limits of the allergy safely.

If you or your child have a history of anaphylaxis, your doctor will also prescribe and train you to use an auto-injector. While you’re beginning to understand the new reality of a milk allergy, your doctor and his staff will be great assets.

Having a serious allergy or having a child with a serious allergy may cause a lot of anxiety. You may be able to help relieve some of this worry and stress by talking with your doctor and other individuals in a situation similar to yours. People who have faced the same issues you’re facing will be able to provide clarity, compassion, and direction. Having someone who can help you navigate your situation will be both reassuring and comforting.