At around 3 months old we discovered that our boys have a milk allergy and about 3weeks after Millie was born discovered she has it too. So, we switched from breastfeeding to soy formula with the boys, I now know to just cut dairy from my diet for baby. We also started to read ingredients on their baby foods. After they turned a year we heard, "They'll outgrow it in a little while." Well they just turned 4 and it's looking like it's here to stay. I always have people wanting to accommodate their allergy, which is great but I pack all of their foods because milk is in so many things you would not expect!! We would rather know there's no dairy than to take that chance. At first reading all of the labels on everything I bought was taking forever but once I had gotten used to it I got it down really quickly! For example: there is milk in several breads, butter used in marinades and for frying an egg. When people hear milk allergy they think intolerance, there's a distinct difference between the two. With an intolerance, usually a stomach upset and minor digestive problems, whereas with allergy there is usually a rash and overall sick feeling. Also I get the common comment, so they just don't drink milk right? Wrong this means they are allergic to milk proteins and not only do they have horrible stomach pains for days on end, but usually there is a full body rash and crying for about 3 days after consumption of milk proteins. Don't be mistaken with the milk allergy they do not miss out on the normal things kids eat and do.
They still eat alfredo sauce ( I make it with soy or almond milk) they still get to eat yogurt and ice cream (soy or coconut) I still use butter in cooking (vegan). They can have cake and donuts and cookies that I make and they love it.
We just have a house rule of no dairy products so that none of the kids have a chance of accidentally getting it. Sure it's a PITA but so far it's working for us and they aren't missing out on normal foods!
