I'm a bit worried here. Every time I have ghee, buttermilk, or curd, I seem to get a cough and cold. Is this somehow tied to my immunity levels? Could it be that I have lactose intolerance? Should I be looking into any specific diagnostic tests to figure out what's really going on? Would love some guidance on this.

Dr Dr Khaleel Ur Rahim

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 1+ Yrs

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Experiencing cough and cold after consuming buttermilk and curd may be related to several factors, including lactose intolerance, dairy protein allergy, or an immune response.

Possible Causes

1. Lactose intolerance: Difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk, can lead to respiratory symptoms like coughing and congestion.
2. Dairy protein allergy: Allergy to milk proteins like casein or whey can trigger an immune response, resulting in respiratory symptoms.
3. Immune system response: Some people may experience an immune response to dairy products, leading to inflammation and respiratory symptoms.

Diagnostic Tests

1. Lactose tolerance test: Measures the body's ability to digest lactose.
2. Elimination diet: Remove dairy products from your diet for 2-4 weeks to assess symptom improvement.
3. Skin prick test or blood tests: To check for dairy protein allergies.
4. IgE antibody test: To assess immune system response to dairy products.

Remedies

1. Lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products: Try lactose-free milk, buttermilk, or curd.
2. Non-dairy alternatives: Explore alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or coconut-based products.
3. Probiotics: Add probiotics to your diet to support gut health and potentially improve lactose tolerance.
4. Avoid triggers: If you identify dairy products as triggers, avoid them or reduce consumption.

Answered 04/07/2025