Firstly, it’s recommended to seek advice from your GP to rule out any other underlying conditions, your doctor should be able to offer a lactose intolerance test in the form of a hydrogen breath test or an elimination diet. Both tests are non-invasive and are easy to carry out. The hydrogen breath test requires the consumption of a lactose solution and a breath test to measure hydrogen particles in the breath.

Lactose intolerance is a result of a lack of lactase in the body. Lactase is the enzyme that is required to break down the milk sugar, lactose, into galactose and glucose which are then utilised in the body for energy. There is no such cause of lactose intolerance and whilst some children may experience lactose intolerance for life, others may grow out of it.

An allergy stimulates an IgE mediated immune response and is usually activated within 30 minutes to 2 hours of exposure to the allergen. Allergic responses can vary from mild to severe (e.g. anaphylaxis) and often require a fast intervention such as antihistamine. An intolerance does not involve the immune system and the effects are often milder. Additionally, symptoms of intolerance may take longer to present themselves.

Absolutely not, dairy is a rich source of many micronutrients such as calcium, iodine, vitamin D and B12. These nutrients play important roles in supporting cognitive development, bone health and energy function. Most children with lactose intolerance will be able to tolerate low lactose foods such as some cheeses, butter and low lactose yoghurt. It’s common to be able to tolerate around one cup of milk too.

Milkaid® Junior Tablets – a strawberry flavoured chewable tablet, are a great way to ensure that your child can still enjoy their favourite lactose-containing foods. Milkaid® Junior provides the enzyme lactase to help break down the milk sugar lactose and therefore limit symptoms of lactose intolerance.

Leaving your child with another adult can be scary but it’s important to remember that lactose intolerance is not harmful. It’s recommended to mention to the adult in charge that your child doesn’t tolerate dairy well although avoid scaremongering and ensure to reassure them if the child consumes too much dairy by mistake it’s not dangerous. You can also send the child with Milkaid® Junior Tablets to consume before having any dairy food or beverages so everyone involved feels reassured.

Milkaid® provides the missing link in lactose intolerance. Milkaid® Junior delivers the lactase to help break down the milk sugar, lactose and therefore helps to limit symptoms. Milkaid® Junior must be taken prior to consuming the lactose-containing food.

Firstly, it’s recommended to seek advice from your GP to rule out any other underlying conditions, your doctor should be able to offer a lactose intolerance test in the form of a hydrogen breath test or an elimination diet. Both tests are non-invasive and are easy to carry out. The hydrogen breath test requires the consumption of a lactose solution and a breath test to measure hydrogen particles in the breath.

Lactose is largely found in dairy foods but can also be found in some medicines, supplements and pre-prepared or ultra-processed foods. It’s always worth checking food labels as dairy will be listed as an allergen.