Living with a dairy allergy

 

An immune system response to milk protein results in a dairy allergy. One of the most prevalent food allergies in kids can also affect adults. A dairy allergy prevents a person from consuming milk or any other dairy products, including cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.

Although having a dairy allergy can be difficult, it is still possible to lead a happy and healthy life. Here are a few advices:

  • Analyze food labels . Dairy ingredients can be found in a wide variety of dishes, even those you wouldn't expect. Even if you have eaten a dish before, make sure to check the ingredient list.
  • Be mindful about contamination. When dairy and food that doesn't contain dairy are in contact, cross-contamination happens. When food is made on communal surfaces, this might occur in restaurants. If you cook food for yourself and someone who does not have a dairy allergy using the same tools, it may also occur at home.
  • Speak to a registered nutritionist or your physician.  They can assist you in developing a menu that satisfies your nutritional requirements while avoiding dairy.

Here are some more advice for managing a dairy allergy: 

  • Think ahead. Call the restaurant in advance to ask if they can accommodate your dairy allergy while you are out to eat. Pack your own snacks and meals when you travel to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Get ready. In case you experience an allergic response, always keep an epinephrine auto-injector (such an EpiPen) on you.
  • Inform your family members. Make sure your loved ones are aware of your dairy allergy and how they can assist you in an emergency.

Here are some guidelines for dealing with a dairy allergy in particular circumstances:

  1. buying food. Inform your waitress of your dairy allergy and ask them to communicate with the chef while you go out to dine. You might need to omit some meals or request changes. You might decide to order a burger without cheese or a salad without dressing, for instance.
  2. Traveling. Packing your own snacks and meals is essential when traveling to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, you are welcome to bring a copy of the doctor's note confirming your dairy allergy. When eating at restaurants abroad or going through airport security, this can be useful.
  3. domestic cooking. Pay close attention to prevent cross-contamination when cooking at home. Separate the food that includes dairy from the food that does not by using different utensils and cutting boards. Immediately after handling dairy products, wash your hands.

For those who are allergic to dairy, here are some resources:

  • Research & Education on Food Allergies (FARE):  
  • www.allergyasthmanetwork.org is the website address for the Allergy & Asthma Network.
  • Although having a dairy allergy can be difficult, it is still possible to lead a happy and healthy life. You can manage your allergy to dairy by avoiding dairy products and using the advice above.

Here are some further pointers and counsel from those who have dairy allergies:

  • Never hesitate to seek help. Ask your server, the chef, or a certified nutritionist if you are unsure whether an item includes dairy or not.
  • Be your own best spokesperson. Don't be shy about expressing your allergy to dairy or asking for modifications.
  • Find a network of support. There are many offline and online support groups available for those who have a dairy allergy. You can get help, resources, and information from these groups.
  • Keep in mind that you are not alone. Worldwide, there are millions of people who are allergic to dairy. You are not traveling by yourself.

Here are some recipes for meals and snacks devoid of dairy:

Dairy-free macaroni and cheese: This recipe makes a traditional comfort dish using a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Grilled cheese sandwiches without dairy: This recipe uses dairy-free cheese and bread to make a tasty and filling sandwich.

Dairy-free pancakes: This recipe makes fluffy, delectable pancakes with dairy-free milk and yogurt.

Dairy-free muffins: This recipe makes moist and tasty muffins with dairy-free milk and butter.

Trail mix without dairy: This treat is a mixture of different nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. It provides a good amount of protein and beneficial fats.

It is possible to live a healthy and full life despite having a dairy allergy with a little preparation and work.



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