Protein in milk could be cause for severe health issues

A new study has found that a protein found in milk may be causing discomfort. Researchers at University College Hospital in London examined 600 adults who claimed to be lactose intolerance. They reported experiencing symptoms like stomach upset, diarrhoea after consuming milk.

This effect was caused by A1 beta casein, researchers discovered.

"If you are reacting to the A1 protein in milk, you may have very similar gut related symptoms to lactose intolerance such as bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhoea or flatulence,"dietitian Rick Miller is quoted as saying .

However, this is not found in all of the dairy products and



there is a new alternative called A2 beta casein with no detrimental effects, the report stated.

"This is the largest human trial to date examining the differences between the impact of the A1 and A2 protein," Dr Anton Emmanuel, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Director of the GI Physiology Unit at University College Hospital, London is quoted as saying  .

Adding, "It suggests the proteins found in dairy can have a significant impact on digestion, and that lactose may not be the only cause of gastrointestinal issues in those with an intolerance."

The study was originally published in the journal Nutrition.