Kaseinintoleranse er en tilstand som oppstår når kroppen har vanskeligheter med å fordøye kasein — et protein som finnes i melk og meieriprodukter. I motsetning til en kaseinalgisk reaksjon, som utløser et immunrespons, påvirker kaseinintoleranse først og fremst fordøyelsessystemet, og forårsaker ofte symptomer som oppblåsthet, gass eller ubehag i magen etter inntak av meieriprodukter.
Casein intolerance involves the digestive system’s inability to properly process casein, resulting in discomfort and various symptoms. Unlike a casein allergy, which is an immune reaction to the casein protein, causing potential severe symptoms like hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis, casein intolerance is a non-immune response. It generally leads to milder, primarily digestive-focused symptoms and does not involve the immune system.
If you regularly experience digestive discomfort such as bloating, abdominal pain, or diarrhea after consuming dairy products containing casein, it may be advisable to consider a test for casein intolerance. This is particularly important if these symptoms disrupt your daily activities or if the specific cause of your discomfort is unclear, as it could indicate other dietary sensitivities or health issues.
Managing casein intolerance involves avoiding or limiting dairy products that contain casein. This includes reading food labels carefully, as casein is present in many dairy products like cheese, milk, and yogurt. Seek alternative dairy-free options like almond, soy, or oat milk and dairy-free cheese. For nutrients typically found in dairy products, such as calcium and vitamins, include other sources in your diet. Consulting with a dietitian can provide guidance on maintaining a balanced diet while avoiding casein. Keeping a food diary can also be useful in identifying other potential food intolerances and in tracking dietary adjustments.