How to tell if dairy is an issue for your child?
Does Your Child React to Dairy? Here’s What You Need to Know
Have you ever wondered if dairy might be causing issues for your child?
Dairy intolerance is one of the most common food sensitivities I see in clinic—and it can often go unnoticed. While dairy does provide nutrients like protein, calcium, zinc, magnesium and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), it’s definitely not essential for every child. In fact, many children don’t tolerate it well, and their bodies thrive when it’s removed from their diets.
Signs Your Child May Not Tolerate Dairy
Not all dairy reactions are obvious. Symptoms can vary based on how much dairy your child eats, whether they’re sensitive to the sugar (lactose) or the protein (casein), and how their immune and digestive systems respond. Common signs I see that may be linked to dairy include:
Eczema and dry, itchy skin
Asthma and breathing issues
Recurrent ear infections or croup
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
Digestive discomfort: constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, reflux, tummy pain
Mood swings, tantrums or difficulty concentrating
Poor sleep, restless nights or insomnia
Recurrent styes
In children with neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD, autism or sensory processing challenges, dairy—particularly the casein protein—can often be a major trigger. That’s why a gluten- and casein-free diet often brings significant improvements for these children.
Lactose vs Casein: It’s Not Just About the Sugar
Many parents assume “lactose-free” means dairy-free—but these are two different things.
Lactose is the sugar in milk. Some children lack the enzyme (lactase) needed to break it down, which leads to immediate digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and tummy pain.
Casein is the protein in milk. A sensitivity to casein can be harder to spot and often causes delayed, body-wide symptoms—including inflammation, skin issues, behavioural changes, and digestive discomfort.
Some children are sensitive to both lactose and casein. For others, it's casein alone that’s causing problems—especially the A1 casein, which is common in most supermarket milk.
A1 vs A2 Milk – Does It Make a Difference?
Yes, it can.
A1 casein is found in most commercial cow's milk and is more likely to cause inflammation and mucus production—especially troublesome for kids with asthma, congestion, or frequent infections.
A2 milk, on the other hand, comes from specific breeds like Jersey and Guernsey cows, as well as goats and sheep. A2 casein is typically gentler on the gut and less inflammatory. Some children may tolerate A2 milk, goat’s milk or fermented dairy like yoghurt and kefir. Others may need to avoid all forms of dairy entirely.
Should You Remove Dairy from Your Child’s Diet?
If your child is showing symptoms that could be linked to dairy, it might be time to trial a dairy-free diet. Here's how I usually guide families through this:
Eliminate All Dairy for 4-6 Weeks, longer if needed
This means removing all milk, cheese, yoghurt, butter, cream, sour cream, custards, ice cream, and anything with dairy as an ingredient (watch out for hidden dairy)—even lactose-free products.Read Every Label
Dairy hides in many packaged foods like crackers, chocolate, dips, and baked goods. A true trial requires diligence to avoid confusion about results.Reintroduce Slowly
After the elimination period, begin reintroducing with gentler options like A2 or goat’s milk. Do this one product at a time, and observe closely for any changes.Repair Gut Health
If your child has a dairy intolerance, their gut likely needs support. During elimination is a great time to rebuild with probiotics, gut-healing foods, and a tailored naturopathic plan.
What If You’re Breastfeeding?
If your baby is reacting to dairy and you're breastfeeding, the dairy in your diet could be the cause. This can be a difficult shift, especially when you're already juggling the demands of motherhood. You don’t have to do it alone—support from a practitioner can help you remove only what's necessary and maintain a nourishing, balanced diet.
I am a wealth of knowledge and experience in this area as I have just done 2 years dairy free while breastfeeding!
Can Your Child Get Enough Calcium Without Dairy?
Yes—absolutely. Calcium can be found in many dairy-free foods, including:
Green leafy vegetables (like kale, spinach, broccoli)
Canned salmon or sardines (with bones)
Almonds and almond butter
Tahini (sesame seed paste)
Tofu made with calcium
For picky eaters or children with limited diets, a high-quality supplement may be needed to ensure they’re getting enough calcium and other important nutrients.
Feeling Unsure About What to Do Next?
Identifying a food sensitivity like dairy can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Working with a qualified naturopath who understands children’s health makes the process clearer, calmer, and more effective.
If you think dairy might be affecting your child’s health, I’d love to support you. Book an appointment and let’s get to the bottom of it together.
