Answered by SecondMedic Expert
Dermatologist · Dermatology
This is an interesting question because the answer is not a clear-cut yes or no. There are certain studies which suggest that consuming milk after eating fish can trigger leukoderma, but ultimately this is more of a myth than an absolute truth.
To begin, it's important to note that leukoderma (or vitiligo) is caused by the partial lack of melanin production in your skin cells. The exact cause for this condition has yet to be determined, though many people believe it could have something to do with genetic inheritance or autoimmune disorders like diabetes and thyroid issues. One study in particular found that dietary factors might play a role in causing this disorder due to their potential effect on melanogenesis - basically meaning they can affect the way pigment forms on our skin cells.
Now let's talk about why consuming milk after eating fish might impact us: Fish contains tyrosine - an amino acid which helps create melanin - and if we consume dairy right after eating fish then enzymes in the dairy can block absorption of tyrosine and therefore prevent proper melanogenesis from happening (and as a result trigger leukoderma!). So while there isn't an absolute link between drinking milk after eating fish and developing leukoderma, there are some potential connections between diet and this disorder - so maybe it could be worth thinking twice before reaching for glass of cow’s milk next time you eat sea food!