Many of you have mentioned feeling discomfort after consuming dairy, and you're wondering if you're lactose intolerant. But hold on! It might not be lactose causing your stomach issues.
What Is Dairy Sensitivity?
People often confuse dairy sensitivity with lactose intolerance. Yes, lactose intolerance is a real thing — it happens when your body can't properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. But for many, the real culprit isn't lactose; it's dairy proteins. These proteins can upset your stomach just as much, if not more than, lactose itself.
The Three Proteins in Dairy
Dairy contains three key proteins that can cause issues for sensitive individuals:
Whey Protein: Found in dairy products like milk and in protein shakes. If you're using whey protein powder and notice stomach discomfort, you might want to avoid it.
Casein: Mostly found in cheese, but also in products labeled as "non-dairy." That's right — even some non-dairy creamers can contain casein, so be sure to check the labels!
Lactalbumin: This protein is found in eggs. Some people who are sensitive to dairy proteins can still eat eggs, but others might react to lactalbumin as well.
Why Lactose-Free Products Might Not Help
If you're experiencing discomfort from dairy, switching to lactose-free milk or taking lactase pills may not solve the issue. These products only address the lactose (sugar) problem, not the protein sensitivity. So, if you continue to feel uncomfortable after consuming lactose-free dairy, it’s likely you have a sensitivity to whey, casein, or lactalbumin.
What to Look for on Labels
When checking ingredient labels, look for words like:
Whey
Casein
Caseinate (e.g., sodium caseinate)
Milk protein
Even some products that claim to be “non-dairy” might still contain casein or whey. Pay extra attention to those labels, especially for creamers or processed dairy alternatives.
Can You Be Sensitive to Both?
Yes, it’s possible to be sensitive to both lactose (milk sugar) and dairy proteins. However, many people who think they’re lactose intolerant may actually just be reacting to the proteins found in dairy. Understanding the difference can help you make better dietary choices.
Bottom Line
Dairy sensitivity isn’t always about lactose. If you’re still experiencing discomfort after cutting out lactose, consider whether dairy proteins like whey, casein, and lactalbumin might be the problem. Always check labels, and don’t be afraid to experiment with non-dairy alternatives to see what works best for your body.
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