Randi - I have been sensitive to dairy since I was little. I had some allergy tests done in High School and tested positive on the skin test to the protein in cows milk. However, I didn't eat dairy often enough to pinpoint any symptoms. As time passed I started to keep track of headaches and other reactions anywhere from looking like I had two black eyes to fatigue to hives. It took a long time to pinpoint what was causing it. But it turns out it was dairy, any small trace I will react to. Some right away some are delayed reactions...

It is an ongoing battle, especially since I have moved to a smaller city, it is much harder to find the foods I am accustomed too or specialty stores to accomadate diary free foods. But through a combined effort with my husband, we are finding recipes and other things that work for me. It can be frustrating especially when going out to eat. I have learned to stick with the places I know for sure carry things I can eat. This website has been a huge help to our family. Hearing others stories and there success stories is so encouraging to hear, you don't feel like your the only one on earth with this problem.

Even though it can be lonely and frustrating, I do have to say my attitude and overall well being has improved since going dairy free. When you know what is causing the problem and why it is so much easier to tackle it with a positive outlook. And of course educating family has helped too. They can be a wonderful asset to progress and overcoming the initial battles (and the ongoing ones too) if they know how they might be able to help.