Living With a Milk Allergy

If you suffer from a milk allergy, strictly avoiding milk and food containing milk and milk products is the only way to prevent a reaction, which can include immediate wheezing, vomiting, and hives. It is not always easy to avoid these foods because many unsuspecting products contain milk or milk products.

Some people confuse food allergies with food intolerance. Someone with intolerance to milk may have symptoms such as bloating, abdominal cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, or constipation.

Always check the label ingredients before you use a product. In addition, check the label each time you use the product. Manufacturers occasionally change recipes, and a trigger food may be added to the new recipe. Here are some examples of milk products and foods that may contain milk along with a list of milk substitutes.

*Although soy milk is a popular alternative to cow's milk, it may also cause allergies.

Dairy products are an important source of calcium and vitamin D, so it's important that you eat other foods rich in these nutrients, such as broccoli, spinach, and soy products.

To ensure that you eat a well-balanced, healthy diet, talk to a registered dietitian.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine.