Dairy and its source:
Dairy refers to a group of food products derived from the milk of mammals, primarily cows, sheep, goats, and buffalo. Everyday dairy products include milk, cheese, yogurt, cream, butter, and ice cream. Many diets worldwide commonly consume these foods that serve as a rich source of calcium, protein, and vitamins D and B12.
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is a biological response to injury, irritation, or infection characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain. It is a complex process regulated by the immune system and is essential for protecting the body from harm and promoting healing. However, chronic inflammation, and prolonged and persistent activation of the immune system, can contribute to the development of various diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Multiple factors can trigger inflammation, including poor diet, stress, lack of physical activity, and exposure to environmental pollutants. Identifying and reducing the sources of chronic inflammation is an essential aspect of maintaining good health.
Is dairy inflammatory to all?
Some individuals link dairy products to inflammation, but their relationship varies from person to person and is not universal. Some studies have suggested that dairy products can increase inflammation markers in the blood, while others have found no significant effect. Lactose and casein, found in dairy, trigger an inflammatory response in some individuals. For example, some people may be lactose intolerant and unable to digest lactose properly, leading to digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Others may have an immune response to casein, which can result in inflammation. However, it’s important to note that not everyone will experience inflammation from dairy, and individual tolerance to dairy products varies. To address any worries you have about dairy’s impact on your health, consult a physician or a professional dietitian.
If you are concerned about the effects of dairy on your health, please learn more about this fact by speaking with your doctor or a registered dietitian.
✓Dairy intolerance health issues
Some individuals experience adverse effects from consuming dairy due to specific health issues, such as lactose intolerance, dairy protein intolerance (casein intolerance), or an autoimmune condition such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease. These conditions can trigger an immune response leading to inflammation in the digestive system, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. We describe some of them below:
- Lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance, a digestive disorder, occurs when the body cannot properly digest lactose, a sugar commonly found in dairy products. People with lactose intolerance lack sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose in the gut. As a result, consuming thier products can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person, and some individuals with lactose intolerance may be able to consume small amounts of dairy without any discomfort. In contrast, others may need to avoid it entirely.
- Milk Allergy
Milk allergy is a food allergy that occurs when the immune system reacts to one or more proteins in milk. The most common proteins in milk that can cause an allergic reaction are casein and whey. A milk allergy can cause mild symptoms, such as rashes or hives, or severe symptoms, such as anaphylaxis, which causes difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeats, and low blood pressure. If you suspect a milk allergy, you must consult your doctor or a registered dietitian for a proper diagnosis and management plan. They may recommend an elimination diet, food allergen testing, or other strategies to help you avoid milk and manage your symptoms.
The bottom line:
The relationship between dairy and inflammation is complex and varies from person to person. Some studies have suggested that dairy products can increase inflammation markers, while others have found no significant effect. Lactose and casein, present in dairy products, have triggered an inflammatory response in some individuals. Due to health conditions like lactose intolerance, dairy protein intolerance, or an autoimmune disorder, consuming dairy can adversely affect some individuals. It’s important to talk to a doctor or registered dietitian to learn more about the effects of dairy on individual health and to receive proper diagnosis and management plans.
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