Possible milk intolerance

[flibbertigibbert]

I've suffered for years with IBS, eczema and acne which I know can all be triggered by food intolerances.

I've recently started having Weetabix for breakfast instead of toast, so I've increased my milk intake and it seems to be aggravating all three conditions.

I'm going to cut out milk for a few weeks to see if it helps. I'm confused though - I saw some 'Lactofree' in the shops. Is there a difference between milk and lactose intolerance?

I got some soya milk but didn't like it at all so I'm wondering whether Lactofree would be nicer. But is that still going to make my symptoms worse?

It's worth a try but I have found I'm ok if I stick to skimmed milk only.

Definitely give Lactofree a try. All they do is take the lactose (sugar) out of regular milk; you can barely taste the difference.
Soya milk is vile, especially the unsweetened version.

I switched after my IBS diagnosis last year and the difference was immediate. The same company do lactofree yoghurt which is delicious. Don't like their cheese at all but I just buy strong cheddar and use a tiny amount if I have a craving.

horsemadgirl - in the past I've found that skimmed milk isn't too bad for me. I think it's because I've been having so much more of it as the Weetabix soaks it up, whereas before I would drain the milk off my spoon before eating cereal.

marriednotdead - thanks for that, I'll definitely give the Lactofree a try.

I got some unsweetened soya milk and it was horrible.

Ah yes I stick to 'naughty' cereals as Weetabix bungs me up!

i have severe ibs , which only in the last 3 years has become more in control.

if things are flaring up, i use the lactose free milk in moderation, and avoid as much dairy as possible.

i also avoid wheat, and try not to have more than one meal a day with wheat. for instance wheat breakfast cereal means no pasta for dinner and jacket potato for lunch.

cut out spicy foods, and anything with caffine , thats choc, tea and coffee.

avoid for month.(longer if really bad) then gradually work back in small amounts.

fibre is very important, but in small amounts, but important to keep 'going' if you see what i mean.

caffine gives you the runs, and encourages a lazy bowel.

when constipated i sprinkle a teaspoon of lindseed on my cereal.

and the family all eat high fibre foods,such as brown rice, wholewheat pasta/bread etc.

this is to keep my fibre intake high, and want my family to have healthy bowels!
white bread is a treat in our home!