When exclusive breastfeeding isn't possible, many parents turn to commercial milk-based infant formulas to fulfill their baby's nutritional needs. Although many babies thrive on these formulas, allergies, intolerances or medical conditions can make it difficult for some babies to digest traditional formulas. If you suspect your baby cannot tolerate regular formulas, take him to the doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor can help you find appropriate substitutes for traditional formula.
Significance
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) carefully evaluates the manufacture and marketing of infant formulas. They ensure that the products you buy for your baby are as safe and nutritious as possible. Although you can buy lactose-free or soy formulas at many supermarkets, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends giving your child traditional formula unless your pediatrician specifically asks you to switch for medical reasons.
Identification
Milk allergies--which are different than lactose intolerance--are a common culprit behind an infant's inability to digest regular formula. Symptoms of a milk allergy include loose stools, vomiting, refusing food, irritability, excessive crying and skin rashes. Your baby might also break out into hives after eating or experience breathing difficulties, such as wheezing. Your doctor will probably perform several tests, including stool and blood tests and an allergy skin test, in order to diagnose a milk allergy.
Considerations
Although changing to a soy formula can help some babies with milk allergies, pediatrician Dr. William Sears, author of "The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby From Birth to Age 2," cautions that 30 to 50 percent of babies allergic to milk are also allergic to soy. You might need to give your baby special hydrolyzed formulas in which the proteins have been broken down into smaller, more easily digestible portions or amino acid-based formulas that contain protein in its most basic form.
Prevention/Solution
The American Academy of Pediatrics urges women to breastfeed their babies if possible. Although breastfeeding moms might need to exclude dairy products from their diet when nursing a baby with a milk allergy or intolerance, most babies tolerate breast milk. Breastfeeding for at least six months can help prevent food allergies in an infant with a strong family history of allergies.
Warning
The FDA cautions against giving your baby---defined as an infant less than 1 year of age--whole milk, goat's milk or any type of homemade formula since these substances lack many of the nutrients necessary for proper infant growth and development. Giving your baby these substances can potentially lead to malnutrition and illness. Discuss any concerns you have related to your baby's feeding or growth with her doctor so that you can work together to find a safe formula alternative for your baby.
