Types of Allergic Reactions to Dairy
If you've ever had an allergic reaction to dairy products, you know how frustrating it can be. Different people react differently to different foods and ingredients, which makes it even harder to tell what might cause a problem. Dairy allergies come in two main types: IgE and IgG. We'll explain what these terms mean and how they relate to dairy allergies so that you can better understand your own body and keep yourself safe when eating out at restaurants or ordering food at home.
Dairy allergies come in two types
The two types of dairy allergy are IgE and IgG.
IgE
IgE (immunoglobulin E) is a type of antibody that helps defend against foreign substances in the body by neutralizing them before they can cause harm. When we eat certain foods or come into contact with pollen or other allergens, our bodies produce these antibodies in response—which means that it's possible for people who are allergic to dairy products not only to feel sick physically but even die as well!
IgE reactions occur when your body produces antibodies against a particular protein in cow's milk, which causes an allergic reaction. They're more common than IgG reactions, which occur when your immune system mistakes another type of protein for the one in cow's milk and reacts adversely to it (IgG).
Symptoms may include watery eyes, sneezing or nasal congestion; hives or itching; swelling around the lips; chest tightness/pain, or wheezing (wheezing is when you breathe faster than usual).
If you have an IgE reaction to dairy, your immune system responds within minutes after exposure to the allergen. That can lead to potentially life-threatening symptoms.
IgG
IgG reactions are less common, but more likely to cause chronic symptoms. People with IgG reactions, on the other hand, have more delayed symptoms that can present hours or even days later. These allergic reactions that occur as a result of IgG antibodies include:
Skin reactions: Some people may experience acne or eczema after consuming dairy. The cause might be mistaken for dryness or breakouts but is, in fact, the body's response to dairy.
Sinus issues: Dairy products can also lead to congestion, sinus pressure, and thickened mucus. You might attribute your discomfort to seasonal allergies or a mild cold, but it could be a sensitivity to milk.
Gut issues: Some experience diarrhea, gas, or bloating after consuming dairy products. Dairy can also affect the gut by inducing nausea or vomiting that could be confused with food poisoning or a stomach bug.
Chronic inflammation: If you're allergic to dairy and your immune system becomes overworked, you might experience chronic inflammation. Signs include unexplained fatigue, body or joint pain, and low energy. Chronic inflammation means your body is in a constant state of alert. This can ultimately be harmful to your body's organs and tissues.
Despite many people's inability to digest the sugar in cow's milk, few people are aware that this is considered a food intolerance. A dairy allergy or intolerance is the most common food sensitivity. When people are unable to digest the sugar in cow's milk (known as lactose), this is considered intolerance. When people have a reaction to the proteins in cow's milk, this is considered an allergy.
If you have an allergy to cow's milk dairy products, there are several alternatives that can help you keep allergies at bay without sacrificing taste. Plant milk (which also has 50% more calcium) is a good substitute, including almond or coconut milk. Some people who have a problem with cow's milk products may tolerate goat or sheep milk alternatives — or even ghee, which is clarified butter that doesn't contain casein or lactose (the components of cow's milk people often react to).
You’re an individual and at KayKon we believe you should have a customized Personalized Wellness Plan created just for you based on your goals and current health conditions. If you’re interested in taking back control of your health and living a life full of energy, vitality, and wellness we urge you to book an initial 15min consultation today!
In Good Health
The Kaykon Team
