Why do some people in the region no longer Consume Dairy?

According to research published in The Lancet, lactose malabsorption is widespread in the Middle East; the prevalence is about 70% (57–83). This occurs in adulthood and results from a genetically programmed decline in lactase activity, the small intestine enzyme responsible for digesting lactose. This decline usually starts after two years.

A complete inability to digest lactose, or lactose intolerance, is a reason to fully avoid milk

According to pediatrician Dr. Savita V. Jain, the severity of lactose intolerance symptoms is directly related to the amount of lactose consumed. The more lactose, the more pronounced the symptoms, which can range from mild to severe and occur within minutes to hours of consuming dairy products.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance

  • Nausea

  • Abdominal pain, cramping, and bloating

  • Loose stools and gas

  • Watery diarrhea with gas

Milk allergy and lactose intolerance are different

Milk intolerance is often mistaken for lactose intolerance. However, it is usually the result of a milk protein allergy rather than a lactose deficiency. Lactose intolerance affects digestion, while milk allergy is an immune system reaction. While lactose intolerance can cause discomfort, it is not life-threatening, whereas milk allergy can cause a severe reaction like anaphylaxis. Milk allergies typically develop in the first year of life, when an infant's digestive system is still developing. On the other hand, lactose intolerance can occur in childhood or adulthood and become more noticeable over time. Lactose is present in many foods and medications, and milk is often added to processed foods.

Growing health awareness among consumers is driving a change in dietary habits

According to Redha Mansouri, CEO of Fresh Fruits Company in Dubai, consumers are increasingly choosing healthier options such as fruits, vegetables, and juice products instead of unhealthy foods high in saturated fats. To meet calcium needs, one can consume dark green leafy vegetables, nuts (almonds), beans (white beans), calcium-fortified orange juice, or take a calcium supplement. Lactose intolerance and concerns about dairy products have led to a rise in the consumption of dairy alternatives like soy and almond milk. Additionally, the growing obesity problem in the UAE has prompted government initiatives to promote healthier food choices, particularly among school children.

Dairy products, including cheese, milk, butter, and yogurt, contribute to cholesterol and saturated fat intake, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other serious health problems.

How do you identify dairy-free items?

Check the ingredients on food labels and the nutrition facts; if a food label includes any of the following words, the product contains dairy.

  • Milk (Cow’s Milk)

  • Lactose

  • Whey

  • Casein, Caseinate

  • Curds

  • Cream

  • Cheese

  • Nougat

  • Ghee

  • Paneer

  • Butter

  • Yogurt

  • Lactalbumin

  • Lactoferrin

  • Lactoglobulin

  • Lactulose


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