Lactose intolerance vs Cow's milk allergy

This is caused by a lack of the enzyme lactase in the gastrointestinal tract which digests the milk sugar lactose. The symptoms are similar to some of the symptoms of milk allergy: such as diarrhoea, vomiting, gas and stomach pain.

Depending on individual tolerance, small amounts of yoghurt and hard cheese, such as cheddar, may be tolerated as they contain less lactose than cow’s milk.

The Woolworths lactose-free milk and lactose-free yoghurt is designed to be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals as the lactose content is less than 0.01%. These products are NOT suitable for those with cow’s milk protein allergy.

• Free From Lactose Range Low fat Ayrshire milk 

• Free From Lactose Range Low fat Ayrshire yoghurt 

• Free From Lactose Low Fat Strawberry Flavoured Yoghurt 

This is an abnormal response by the body’s immune system to cow’s milk protein which is present in all dairy products, including lactose-free milk and yoghurt – which means those with this allergy need to avoid these products.

Individuals with a cow’s milk protein allergy should also read ingredient labels as cow’s milk is often present in other foods besides dairy products.

Casein, caseinates, curd, whey, whey syrup, the prefix “LACT” - lactalbumin, lactoglobulin, lactose, lactate, lactic acid, milk powder, milk solids, cream, yoghurt, buttermilk, sour milk, butter, margarine, shortening, ghee, evaporated milk, chocolate and caramel.

When removing dairy from a diet it is important to ensure that the diet still contains sufficient calcium to maintain bone health.  

Other sources of calcium include:
Pilchards, sardines, canned salmon (eat the bones)
Soya, oat or rice drink fortified with calcium
Dark green leafy vegetables
Sesame or sunflower seeds
Tahini (sesame spread)
Almonds

A calcium supplement may be necessary if calcium intake is low.

The following Woolworths’ products can act as a replacement for cow’s milk:
• Long Life Rice Drink –fortified with calcium.
• Organic Rice Milk

• Almond Drink – source of calcium
• Unsweetened Soya Drink – fortified with calcium
• Organic Sweetened Soya Drink – fortified with calcium

Can I drink goat’s milk instead? Unfortunately not!

Before embarking on a lactose-free diet or a cow’s milk protein free diet ensure that diagnosis is made by a qualified medical professional specialising in allergies and intolerances.  This avoids unnecessary dietary restrictions and potential nutritional deficiencies.

For an individualised assessment and meal plan to cater for your unique needs, contact the Association for Dietetics in South Africa (ADSA) at www.adsa.org.za for a dietitian in your area.