Lactose intolerance and cow’s milk allergy – not to be confused!

Lactose intolerance and cow's milk allergy are often confused, but they are distinct conditions. Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose sugar, leading to symptoms like bloating, stomach pain, and diarrhea. It affects a significant portion of the global population, with symptoms potentially contributing to the development of various diseases.

On the other hand, cow's milk allergy is an immune response to proteins in cow's milk, leading to allergic reactions like inflammation, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues. It is common in children and can be severe, even causing anaphylactic shock. The treatment for both conditions involves avoiding dairy products and checking labels for hidden milk ingredients, but there are plenty of dairy-free alternatives available. Going dairy-free has never been easier, with a growing market of plant-based milk, cheese, and yogurt options.