Lactose intolerance or allergies can affect babies just as they may affect adults. A true lactose intolerance occurs when the child's body is unable to digest lactose, the sugar in dairy products. Cow's milk protein allergy can affect young infants and typically resolves within the first year, according to the website Wholesome Baby Food. When babies exhibit milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance, they need to follow a lactose-free diet.
Breast-feeding
Young infants may exhibit a milk protein allergy, making them highly sensitive and intolerant of the whey protein contained in cow's milk. Mother's who wish to breast-feed their lactose intolerant or milk protein allergic infants or babies must adopt a dairy-free, or elimination, diet, according to Le Leche League. After the start of the elimination diet, in which the mother stops eating all foods containing cow's milk, it can take between a few days to six weeks to see improvement.
Lactose-free Formula
In many cases, infants and babies who are lactose intolerant or milk protein allergic are unable to breast-feed and should be placed on lactose-free formula. Soy-based formulas are an option for infants who require lactose-free foods. Another formula option is one with protein hydrosylate, also referred to as hypoallergenic. These formulas are easier for babies to digest and less likely to bring about an allergic reaction, according to MayoClinic.com. Both brand name and generic formulas are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to contain the minimum, and no more than the maximum, amount of nutrients needed for infants and babies.
Baby Foods
The majority of baby foods are lactose-free but it is important to pay special attention to food labels to be sure there are no hidden ingredients such as whey, milk solids and dry milk powder. Fruits and vegetables prepared without milk, oatmeal and rice cereal can be given to babies who need a lactose-free diet. To ensure your babies food is lactose-free, you can make it yourself by pureeing foods you have prepared yourself.
Finger Foods
When it comes time to introducing finger foods to older babies, you should continue to read food labels for hidden ingredients such as whey and dry milk powder. Foods that can be introduced to babies include fruits and vegetables, rice, pasta, bagels and graham crackers. Kosher foods with a "P" or the word Parve on the packaging are made completely without dairy products and can be served to lactose intolerant or allergic babies as well.
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