One of the best things for me was to find good milk substitutes, like soy or
rice milk, in both a liquid and powdered form.  These can then be
substituted into your favorite recipes to create most of the same foods,
only dairy-free.

My son likes Silk soymilk.  We use Fleischmann's Light margarine for
spreading, and Hain Safflower margarine for baking.  Tofutti makes wonderful
sour cream and cream cheese substitutes, as well as Tofutti Cuties (which
are just like ice cream sandwiches), and an American cheese substitute.  I
usually take all of my son's food (including snacks) with us wherever we go.
I usually try to find out what everyone else will be having and take
something very similar so he doesn't feel left out.

Sandy
----- Original Message -----
From: JT forbes <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2001 8:51 PM
Subject: Newbie--my son


> Hi, I'm new to the list and to the whole idea of milk allergy. My son Ben,
4
> 1/2, was just diagnosed with a severe allergy to milk products. He was
> tested by blood sample. His symptoms improved immediately after starting
his
> new diet..... He's never had any anaphalactic (sp?) reaction of any kind,
> nor any skin symptoms, but he's been one grouchy, short-tempered,
lethargic
> little boy for a long time now-- and has had no bowel control (tho never
> complained of tummy aches) until now. We are thrilled!
>
> Now we just have to figure out how to work through the logistics of
everyday
> life without casein. I've found the big sites on the web, but am still
> loooking for suggestions about specific foods (brands) that are ok, and
> would love to hear from others whose kids may be effected similarly by
milk.
> From anyone who got a late start like we did, at age 4, how have you
handled
> things like playing at friends' houses, school snack, etc.? Ben is
handling
> the elimination of many of his favorite foods very well, but I need wise
> tips from other parents who have been through this & managed to make life
as
> normal as possible for their kids.
>
> How do you deal with sibs who can eat anything?
>
> Since Ben's allergy was found so late, am I correct in thinking that he
will
> not likely ever outgrow it?
>
> I'm so glad that I found this list. Thanks in advance to anyone who can
> help.
> Jenny Forbes
> East Lansing, Michigan
> Mom of Meghan (6), and twins Ben & Rachel (4)