Casein allergy: how to relieve the symptoms

Casein allergy: what is it?

A casein allergy is an immune reaction to one of the main proteins in milk, casein. This protein is found in the milk of cows, sheep, goats and other mammals. Casein allergy can occur in infants as well as adults.

Symptoms of casein allergy

The symptoms of casein allergy can vary and include:

• Skin manifestations: hives, itching, swelling, eczema;
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain;
• Respiratory symptoms: difficulty breathing, cough, runny nose, itchy throat, laryngeal edema;
• Anaphylactic shock (rare).

Diagnosis of casein allergy

Diagnosis of casein allergy includes taking a medical history, clinical examination, blood tests for immunoglobulin E (IgE), and skin tests with casein. It is important to make a differential diagnosis with lactose intolerance.

Difference between casein allergy and lactose intolerance

Casein allergy and lactose intolerance are different conditions. The allergy is an immune reaction to the protein, whereas lactose intolerance is due to a lack of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down the milk sugar lactose.

Casein allergy treatment

The main treatment for casein allergy is to eliminate foods containing casein from the diet. This includes milk and dairy products, some food additives and thickeners.

Casein allergy in children

Casein allergy in children is very sensitive, and therefore it is important to accurately monitor the food they eat and avoid products containing casein. In children with case of casein allergy it is recommended to use hypoallergenic mixtures on the basis of protein hydrolysates or vegetable milk.

Medication

Medical treatment of casein allergy may include antihistamines (such as Cetirizine, Loratadine, Phenystil), glucocorticosteroids (Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone) and symptomatic treatment (antacids, antispasmodics). In case of anaphylactic shock, immediate administration of adrenaline (Epinephrine) is necessary.

Prevention of casein allergy

Prevention of casein allergy includes avoiding foods containing casein, and visiting an allergist for regular monitoring and treatment adjustments.

Main foods that contain casein

• The main foods that contain casein are milk, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and other dairy products.
• Casein can also be found in food additives and thickeners such as sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, and carrageenan.
• Casein can hide in foods such as bread, confectionery, sausages, convenience foods, sauces, and even some medicines.

How to replace casein in your diet

Alternatives to milk are plant-based milks such as soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, buckwheat milk, and oat milk. They do not contain casein and are a great option for people with casein allergies.

Vegetarian and vegan products are often casein-free and are good alternatives to dairy products. These include tofu, tempeh, plant-based cheeses, and yogurts.

Foods that do not contain casein

Casein-free foods include vegetables, fruits, cereals, legumes, nuts, meat, fish and seafood. It is important to check the composition of foods and avoid those that contain casein or its derivatives.

Casein allergy is a serious condition that can occur in adults and children, including newborns. Allergy symptoms can be varied, so it is important to see an allergist for diagnosis and treatment. Eliminating casein-containing foods from the diet is the mainstay of treatment, but medications may also be needed. Knowing where casein is found and how to replace it in the diet can help control allergies and avoid unwanted health consequences.