Kyle says, “Regarding casein, the materials stated it’s the most common sensitivity in children. Do they eventually become tolerant as they get older? If so, do you how this works?”
Chris: I think definitely some kids do grow out of casein intolerance, and I think it’s the same mechanism. I’m sure you’re aware that some kids are allergic to nuts and other things or eggs, and they grow out of that. I think it’s just a question of the maturation of the juvenile immune system and changes that happen there that lead to increased oral tolerance of certain substances like casein, proteins, and other foods as they get older. Lactose intolerance, which you’re not asking about, but it’s worth pointing out that that can shift too. There are actually some interesting recent studies that I believe we’ll be talking about in the probiotic presentation that show that lactose intolerance can actually be, I don’t know, cured might be too strong of a word, but consuming fermented dairy starting with very small amounts and increasing over time can actually shift the microbiome in such a way that it will now have species of bacteria that can degrade lactose even if it didn’t before. That’s interesting new research.