Symptom 3. Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal issues are prevalent symptoms of both dairy allergies and milk intolerance. These can include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. The severity of these symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and they may occur soon after consuming dairy products or be delayed by several hours.
In dairy allergies, gastrointestinal symptoms are caused by the immune system’s response to the proteins in milk. The body mistakenly identifies these proteins as harmful, leading to inflammation and irritation of the digestive system.
On the other hand, gastrointestinal symptoms in milk intolerance are the result of the body’s inability to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk. This leads to an accumulation of undigested lactose in the gut, causing fermentation by bacteria and resulting in gas production and other symptoms.
To manage gastrointestinal symptoms related to dairy allergies or milk intolerance, it is crucial to avoid dairy products. For those with lactose intolerance, consuming lactose-free dairy products or using lactase supplements may help alleviate symptoms. However, individuals with dairy allergies should completely eliminate dairy products from their diet and consult a healthcare professional for further guidance. (3)
