Posted on May 27, 2009 in Latest News
Casein is a protein found in milk and milk products.It is also used in many food products due to its property of holding foods together. Bread, soups, instant potatoes, processed cereals and adhesives are some of the products that contain casein. One of the first signs of casein allergy is skin rash, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
Casein allergy is kind of food allergy that is caused when our body’s immune system mistakenly identifies casein as a threat and reacts against it. This protective response of the body triggers an allergic reaction. Casein allergy should not be confused with casein intolerance –in the case of intolerance, the body is unable to process and digest the protein and it does not involve the immune system.
Symptoms of Casein Allergy:
Casein allergy can trigger the following reaction which are top Symptoms of Casein Allergy:
- Hives
- Rashes
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating and Gas
- Diarrhea
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Breathlessness
In rare cases, the allergic reaction can progress to a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. This reaction can be avoided by administering an epinephrine when allergy symptoms are detected.
If casein allergy is suspected in a person, he/she can consult an allergist who would conduct allergy tests. Blood test (RAST) and skin test are done to determine if a person has casein allergy.
Dealing With Casein Allergy, Treatment of Casein Allergy
Treatment of Casein Allergy includes:
- People having casein allergy should avoid milk and milk products
- While shopping for food products, one should always read the labels and avoid those foods which contain casein
- Certain adhesives also contain casein and those products should be avoided
- One should be careful of cross-contamination – where casein can pass onto other food products while cooking or handling. Use separate utensiles, knives etc. to avoid cross contamination. Also be careful while eating out
- Always carry a self-injectable epinephrine. It can stop an anaphylactic reaction
Avoiding milk to prevent casein allergy can deprive you of calcium. Hence, other foods such as soy milk, rice milk etc. should be consumed to compensate for it.
If you suspect casein allergy, do consult an allergist who can conduct tests and help you to manage casein allergy.
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