Lactose intolerance formula for infants
Coping with Cow Milk Allergy & Lactose Intolerance
What else can a baby with cow’s milk allergy (CMA) drink?
It’s estimated that 1 in 13 children in the United States has food allergies.1,2 A very common one is cow’s milk allergy (CMA). Some children will outgrow a food allergy over time. But this isn’t as simple as it sounds for parents wanting to provide the best and most comforting nourishment for their babies.
It’s far from an impossible situation, though. First, if you suspect that your baby has a food allergy, speak to your baby’s pediatrician. The following information on CMA in babies may also help ease your mind and guide you forward.
What is cow’s milk allergy?
CMA usually develops during a baby's first year. It simply means that an infant’s immune system reacts to one or more cow’s milk proteins in infant formula, breast milk, or any food with milk-containing ingredients.
Symptoms of CMA can appear minutes to hours after a feeding. Talk to your baby’s doctor if they experience symptoms such as a rash, hives, diarrhea, constipation, and/or blood in the stool. While severe symptoms are rare, call 911 if your baby experiences trouble breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, or loss of consciousness.
Learn more about how to spot food allergy symptoms.
Only a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose an allergy. If you suspect that your little one has a food allergy, talk to your baby’s pediatrician. They can do a full exam, take a history of all symptoms, and make recommendations specific to your infant.
Is it CMA or lactose intolerance?
CMA and lactose intolerance in babies are not the same, but they may have similar symptoms like vomiting, excessive gassiness, or diarrhea.
CMA and lactose intolerance differ fundamentally:
- Cow’s milk allergy is an immune reaction to the protein in milk
- Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products, due to a deficiency of an enzyme.
Read more about CMA and lactose intolerance.
What formula to give to a baby who’s allergic to cow's milk?
Keep in mind that even small amounts of milk can cause a reaction in a baby with CMA. If your baby's pediatrician or allergist confirms CMA, the doctor may recommend a formula like Similac® Alimentum®.
Shop now to find a Similac formula that may be right for your baby.
What type of formula is available for infants with cow’s milk allergy (CMA)?
If your baby’s pediatrician diagnoses your baby with CMA, they will likely suggest what’s called a “hypoallergenic” formula like Similac Alimentum. It’s a formula with protein that’s been extensively “hydrolyzed,” or broken down.
Shop now to find a formula that’s right for your baby.
Your pediatrician might refer you to a registered dietitian to help you learn about problem ingredients in foods and beverages and healthy alternatives to ensure your little one’s nutrition needs are being met.
What should I avoid feeding my baby who has CMA?
If your child has CMA, it’s important to avoid milk in all forms. You may not be able to tell if a food contains milk just from the name of its ingredients. Ingredients like galactose, ghee, and casein, for example, all contain milk.
The USDA’s food allergen label law requires a food label to state if it contains a “Top 8” allergen, such as milk. This will be identified in the ingredient list or as an allergen statement. Learn more about the Top 8 Food Allergies.
Avoid all milk-containing foods and ingredients. Though this list is not complete, here are some to look out for:
- Butter, butter fat, butter acid, and butter ester(s)
- Buttermilk
- Casein/caseinates (in all forms)
- Cheese
- Cottage cheese
- Cream
- Curds
- Custard
- Ghee
- Half-and-half
- Lactalbumin and lactalbumin phosphate
- Lactoferrin
- Lactose
- Lactulose
- Milk (in all forms)
- Milk protein hydrolysate
- Pudding
- Rennet casein
- Sour cream and sour cream solids
- Sour milk solids
- Whey (in all forms)
- Yogurt
Is the milk-derived protein in Similac Alimentum OK for my baby with CMA?
Although the protein in Similac Alimentum (Casein Hydrolysate) is derived from cow’s milk, the casein ingredient has been extensively broken down, or “hydrolyzed.
” This results in a hypoallergenic formula that virtually eliminates allergic reactions in most babies who are allergic to cow's milk protein. And, it’s made to give babies the complete nutrition they need for growth and development.
You should check with your baby’s healthcare provider before switching to any formula specially designed for the dietary management of food allergies.
Can I still drink cow’s milk if my baby is allergic?
If you drink cow’s milk and breastfeed your baby, there might be enough milk protein in your breast milk to cause an allergic reaction. For this reason, your healthcare professional may advise you to eliminate cow’s milk from your diet, so be sure to discuss this with your healthcare professional or your baby's pediatrician.
Will my baby outgrow CMA, and when?
Most children eventually outgrow a milk allergy and often can begin a switch to cow’s milk after they reach 1 year of age. For children who still have CMA after 12 months, it’s common to supplement with a hypoallergenic formula.
It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine when this transition should begin and to identify an appropriate milk-alternative beverage.
References: 1. United States Census Bureau QuickFacts 2021. census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/RHI225219 2. Gupta RS, et al. Pediatrics. 2018;142(6):e20181235.
Sources: Food allergies. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.cdc.gov/healthyschools/foodallergies/ Accessed February 16, 2022.
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Lactose-Free Baby Formula | Types, Reasons and Benefits
Lactose-free baby formula is made for infants who have lactose intolerance. Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk, and some babies have trouble digesting it. Lactose-free formula for babies can help.
What Is Lactose-Free Baby Formula?
Lactose-free baby formula is a cow’s milk-based formula that is specially processed to remove lactose, the sugar found in milk.
Manufacturers then replace the lactose with another type of carbohydrate, such as corn syrup, to make it easier for babies with lactose intolerance to digest.
Because most lactose-free formula is still made with cow’s milk, these formulas are not suited for babies with cow’s milk allergy, or CMA. Lactose intolerance and CMA are two different issues, though they may share similar symptoms that can include diarrhea, tender bellies, gas and fussiness.
CMA is an immune reaction, while lactose intolerance is a digestive issue, according to Nestlé Health Science. Babies with CMA would do better with a soy-based or hypoallergenic baby formula.
There are several varieties of lactose-free formula, low-lactose formulas and nondairy alternatives available in the U.S. Parents and caregivers should speak to their pediatrician to make sure a particular brand of lactose-free formula is right for their baby, especially if their baby requires preemie formula or has a condition called galactosemia.
Similac
Similac baby formulas are some of the most popular in the U.S. Two of their lactose-free formulas are Similac Sensitive and Similac Alimentum. These are milk-based formulas that are processed for lactose-intolerant infants.
However, Abbott Laboratories — the makers of Similac — issued a recall on baby formula in February 2022 for some lots of Similac made in its Sturgis, Michigan, factory because of potential bacterial contamination. If you purchased or plan to purchase Similac baby formula, make sure you check the recalled formula list.
Enfamil
Enfamil brand baby formula made by Mead Johnson is another popular brand of formula. Its lactose-free brands include Enfamil NeuroPro Sensitive and Enfamil A+ Lactose Free. Enfamil NeuroPro uses corn syrup as a replacement carbohydrate.
Unlike Similac, Enfamil brands haven’t been recalled recently.
Lactose-Free Dairy Alternatives
Some parents and caregivers may opt for lactose-free dairy alternatives, which are naturally free of lactose and aren’t made with cow’s milk.
They are more suitable for babies with lactose intolerance and cow’s milk allergies.
These formulas are made with soy, rice or other types of plant-based protein. Formulas sold in the U.S are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and have the same nutrition as cow’s milk-based formulas. Examples include Gerber Good Start Gentle Soy or Enfamil Simply Plant-Based.
Low-Lactose Formulas
Low-lactose formula has reduced levels of lactose but may have higher levels than lactose-free brands. Many popular formulas fall in the low-lactose category.
Examples include Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive, which has 98% less lactose than Similac Total Care, and Enfamil A+ Gentlease which is advertised as a low-lactose brand, not lactose-free.
Babies Who Might Use Lactose-Free Formula
Only babies diagnosed with lactose intolerance should use lactose-free formulas. Most babies will tolerate regular cow’s milk formula well, and this is the type of formula many pediatricians recommend.
Babies with diagnosed cow’s milk allergies shouldn’t use lactose-free formulas since they still contain milk and milk protein, which are the causes of allergic reactions in babies with CMA. Mothers with babies who are lactose intolerant can still breastfeed, though mothers of babies who are sensitive to cow’s milk should refrain from consuming dairy while breastfeeding.
Parents and caregivers shouldn’t assume a fussy baby has lactose intolerance without consulting their baby’s doctor. Lactose intolerance in babies is very rare in children younger than 5 years of age.
Potential Side Effects of Lactose-Free Baby Formula
The potential side effects of lactose-free baby formula are similar to those of regular baby formula and are usually related to digestion or formula contamination. Symptoms include bloated bellies, loose stools and colic.
Symptoms of bacterial infection from contaminated formula include crying, fatigue, fever and poor feeding.
If a baby with a severe cow’s milk allergy or rare genetic disorder called galactosemia consumes a lactose-free formula that still contains cow’s milk or traces of lactose, the side effects can be life-threatening.
The safest formula for these babies is one derived from plants and naturally lactose-free.
Formulas made with cow’s milk, including lactose-free brands, may cause a higher risk of necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC, especially in premature babies. NEC is a rare but potentially deadly disease that causes intestinal tissue to die. Some parents have filed Similac and Enfamil baby formula lawsuits after their babies developed NEC and died.
Lawsuit Information
Lawsuits are being filed by parents whose children were diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) after consuming cow's milk-based formula. Learn more.
View Lawsuits
Possible Benefits of Lactose-Free Baby Formula
Possible benefits of lactose-free baby formula include better weight gain, less fussiness and less discomfort for the baby. Babies may be less likely to have reflux or spit-ups.
Because lactose intolerance can cause diarrhea, switching to lactose-free baby formula could relieve diarrhea and stop babies from becoming dehydrated.
Some babies see an improvement in symptoms in a few days, and in others it may take weeks.
Switching to Lactose-Free Baby Formula
If you think your baby may be lactose intolerant, don’t switch to lactose-free baby formula without first consulting with your child’s pediatrician. It’s important to get an actual diagnosis before switching formulas because your baby may have a genetic disorder or cow’s milk allergy.
Once your child’s doctor has confirmed lactose intolerance, they will help you choose a formula that will work for your baby. Sometimes pediatricians have samples of formula for parents to try before committing to buying an entire container. If you have a formula you would like to try, let your baby’s doctor know so they can check the nutrients and ingredients.
Babies with digestive issues may initially have more challenges transitioning to another type of formula or from breastfeeding. Formula has a thicker consistency and is harder to digest than breastmilk.
Highly processed formulas also have a more bitter taste.
A pediatrician may recommend slowly introducing the new formula and weening babies off the old formula or breast milk. After transitioning, make sure you monitor your baby for any signs of discomfort or symptoms and keep your pediatrician informed.
Please seek the advice of a medical professional before making health care decisions.
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Lactose Free Infant Formula | What does it mean and which is better
In the article we will talk about lactose-free baby food. Pediatricians prescribe it for medical reasons. You will find out in what cases a lactose-free mixture is used, and why it is useful to have it even in a house where there is a healthy baby.
Lactose-free mixture is a lifesaver for lactase deficiency and rotavirus
Lactose is milk sugar. Or the carbohydrate found in animal milk. It takes part in the absorption of vitamins and calcium, is a breeding ground for the reproduction of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Lactose is the main source of energy for newborns.
Lactase is an enzyme that is produced in the intestines of an infant and helps digest lactose. Sometimes this enzyme is not produced enough.
Then lactose is not completely broken down. This leads to bloating, diarrhea and restlessness of the baby.
Pediatricians diagnose lactase deficiency.
It is important to know that lactase deficiency is congenital - it is a very rare hereditary disease. At risk are babies whose next of kin suffer from lactose intolerance. Parents, knowing this, need to be on the alert.
Much more often lactase deficiency - acquired - due to illness or other causes. Her symptoms go away after treatment and elimination of the cause. And you can again give the child dairy products.
Infants who are artificially and sometimes breastfed are transferred to a lactose-free or low-lactose diet temporarily or until they switch to adult food.
When lactose-free formula is prescribed
Unlike a low-lactose formula, which is recommended for temporary lactase deficiency, a lactose-free diet is used in cases of serious health problems. These are congenital lactase deficiency - galactosemia or rotavirus infection.
Lactose-free formula for rotavirus
Formula-fed babies with rotavirus need to switch to a lactose-free diet. With rotavirus infection, dairy products aggravate the symptoms of the disease, therefore, are prohibited.
If your baby is an artificial baby, stock up on a jar of soy formula for an emergency. After all, with an intestinal infection, the last thing you want to do is waste time looking for food for your child. And if it is not useful, cook porridge on it for the baby when he grows up.
Nature has taken care of babies who receive mother's milk. It contains immunoglobulins and other substances that facilitate the course of the disease.
Therefore, pediatricians recommend not to interrupt breastfeeding during the period of rotavirus.
Lactose free formula - which is better
Mothers sometimes worry about whether a lactose-free diet can provide a child with all the necessary substances. There is no doubt that lactose-free formula, like any other, is a complete baby food.
After all, this issue is under the control of the state. Activities for the production of baby food are subject to mandatory certification.
Lactose-free mixtures are of two types: on vegetable protein, for example, soy or hypoallergenic.
If the child is not allergic to soy, then it is better to use soy.
What does hypoallergenic formula mean? This means that they cannot cause allergies. All components are selected in such a way that they will be sure to be absorbed by the body. Hypoallergenic mixtures or hydrolysates are a product where proteins are partially broken down and are better absorbed. But hydrolysates are prescribed in the most difficult cases. They are bitter, and babies are reluctant to eat them.
Do not rush to transfer the child to a hypoallergenic diet, unless there are serious indications.
The line of Israeli baby food includes low-lactose and soy formulas:
Materna Extra Care Comfort - low lactose;
Materna Soy 0+ and 12+ are soy nutrition with an improved composition, adapted to the age characteristics of newborns and toddlers from one year old.
Give us a call and a free consultation will help you determine what nutrition your child needs.
All Materna baby food is made without palm oil, without sugar and without GMOs.
How to switch a child to lactose-free formula
The transition scheme depends on the cause. If you are transferring a child to a dairy-free diet due to rotavirus, then you need to change the diet at the same time. Just replace your food with soy. The baby may have a period of getting used to a new product. But this is a lesser evil than to continue to feed him with milk.
If the transition to soy nutrition is planned, we recommend introducing it according to our scheme.
Reaction to lactose-free formula
When transferring a child to another diet, watch his reaction. If soy was chosen as the lactose-free mixture, and an undesirable reaction occurred to it, an allergy to soy should be ruled out. To do this, take a blood test and consult a doctor.
how to choose the right infant formula?
It is important not to confuse conditions such as lactose intolerance and food allergies. Intolerance can cause poor health, indigestion of food, while allergic reactions will constantly worsen, progress, and eventually become very severe in the form of their manifestations.
Lactose is a sugar found in milk, and it is found in both human breast milk and dairy products of animal origin (such as cow or goat milk). It should not be confused with lactase, since lactase is an enzyme necessary for the digestion of lactose - its deficiency or complete absence can provoke a state of lactose intolerance in general.
What to do if the state of intolerance is already established? First of all, it is necessary to note the presence on the modern market of children's products a number of products designed specifically for children with lactose intolerance - these can be both products for complementary foods for an infant, and for its constant feeding.
Particularly noteworthy are the products of well-established manufacturers - these are "Dry lactose-free mixture of Similac Izomil based on soy proteins", and "Dry lactose-free mixture of Enfamil O-Lac", and "Dry lactose-free mixture of Friso Frisosome with nucleotides", and "NAN", and many other lactose-free formulas. These mixtures are intended specifically for such children who have lactose intolerance.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance
In the event that the baby has a pathological condition of lactose intolerance, but he continues to receive it, negative symptoms should develop, such as frequent regurgitation (most often food is not digested), bloating, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, the presence of colic, constant bad feeling.
Causes of lactose intolerance
The primary cause of lactose intolerance is considered to be genetic mutations, which suggests that this condition can be inherited from one of the parents or direct relatives.
Manifestations of primary lactose intolerance develop almost from birth, while the symptoms are pronounced.
There are also secondary causes, these include the corresponding diseases, as a result of which there is an insufficiency (or complete absence) of the lactase enzyme. Most often, such ailments include those that destroy the mucous membrane of the small intestine (for example, celiac disease, sprue, etc.).
How to diagnose lactose intolerance?
Of course, only qualified specialists can make a verdict on the presence or absence of a disease. Watching for symptoms (especially when it comes to lactose intolerance) is necessary, but this activity alone is not enough. A comprehensive examination is also needed, as well as special analyzes and tests (a test for the hydrogen content in the air exhaled by the child, an analysis of the acidity of the stool, a test for lactose intolerance).
What causes lactose intolerance?
The main problem that arises with this condition is the need to limit dairy products, because often other useful substances, such as calcium, are also lost.
Fortunately, today such a problem can be compensated by taking appropriate baby food, and it is enriched with all the missing trace elements and vitamins, so that the baby will not suffer in any way. It is important to responsibly and carefully approach the choice of baby food, and then the problem will be solved.
How to choose a mixture, what to look for when choosing?
A high-quality lactose-free mixture either does not contain milk sugar at all, or its content is present, but in a limited amount, read more in the article "The effect of low-lactose and lactose-free mixtures".
Which mixture to choose depends on the condition of the child, and only a specialist can determine this!
Milk proteins in lactose-free mixtures, however, are contained in the quantities necessary for normal growth and development.
Some mixtures do not contain not only milk sugar, but also glucose in general, so they are perfect for those babies who have intolerance to any sugars.
