Milk aversion can be reversed in both lactose digesters and maldigesters (631.2)

Abstract

It is difficult for adults to achieve the DRI for calcium without consuming dairy products; therefore, aversion to and avoidance of milk and dairy products puts US adults in danger of calcium deficiency. We examined whether a 21 day milk drinking intervention could reverse milk aversion in people who do not habitually consume milk due to lactose intolerance (LI), perceived LI or taste aversion. 445 potential participants responded to advertisements; 82 were screened, 27 completed the milk drinking intervention, 26 completed the 3 month follow up and 24 completed the 6 month follow up. Participants who entered the milk drinking phase were instructed to consume increasing amounts of liquid cow’s milk for a period of 21 days up to 1 cup two times/day with a pre and post hydrogen breath test. The lactose digesters and maldigesters both showed a decrease in overall symptom scores, with no significant difference between groups. Independent of digestive status, subjects demonstrated a significant decrease in aversion, an increase in likeness and an increase in milk and overall calcium consumption at 3 and 6 month following the intervention. These changes in milk consumption were independent of demographics or digestive status. The data reported here suggest a reversal of food avoidance and the possibility that milk avoiders are able to increase likeness and incorporate milk into their diet after increased exposure.