A2 Milk and Dairy Intolerance
A2 Milk and Dairy Intolerance
Many people believe they are lactose intolerant, but it may
be a protein intolerance to the beta-casein protein A1 instead of a decrease in
lactase enzymes. Research is showing some associations between A1 beta-casein
and gastrointestinal distress. Another form of the protein, A2, does not cause
these symptoms. Beta casein is the second most common protein found in cow’s
milk and the difference between A1 and A2 beta casein is one amino acid:
histidine on A1 and proline in the same location on A2. This amino acid
variance changes how the protein is cleaved, and therefore the byproduct of the
protein, beta casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). Studies have found higher inflammation
markers, softer stools, and increased bloating and abdominal pain from
consumers of A1 milk than in those drinking A2 milk. These studies were
connected to the dairy industry, and are being used to promote A2 containing
milk products.
The A1 protein is also being studied for its impact on other
disease processes such as heart disease, diabetes, schizophrenia, autism, and
SIDS, but studies are conflicting. Studies
found some association of A1 milk with heart disease, type 1 diabetes, and
cholesterol levels but the research has numerous flaws and is questionable.
Addressing public concern is important right now because
there is not abundant, clear information on the implications of A1 milk, and
news and research is often interpreted incorrectly by the public, causing fears
to circulate and people to stop buying milk. The a2 milk company has had success
marketing A2 milk in other countries and has started selling milk in the U.S..
Clients may ask questions regarding intolerance to dairy and it is important to
explain to them how products differ, and how they are the same. Clients can be
encouraged to try different products to see which they tolerate best as long as
they don’t have an allergy.
-AC
Thalheimer, J. C. (2017). Is A2 milk the game changer for dairy intolerance? Today's Dietitian, 19(10). Retrieved from: http://www.todaysdietitian.com/digitaleditions.shtml.
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