Cow's Milk Allergy in Infants
CMA is a type of allergy trigged by the protein Casein and Whey found in the cow's milk. The immune system identifies the protein as harmful causing the the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to target the protein. As a result, Histamine is released and other chemicals causing the allergic reactions and symptoms.
Is Milk allergy the same as lactose intolerance?
NO, there are significant differences between the two can be categorized as follow:
What should I feed an infant with CMA?
There are some common formulas you can use based on the degree of the severance of the allergy.
Soy, Rice formulas: these formulas are not recommended in the first 4 months until one year. Also, they are not fully nutritious.
Hypoallergenic (Partially Hydrolyzed): These formulas are recommended in infant from first year who has allergy risk.
Extensively Hydrolyzed: These formulas are recommended for infant who shows allergy symptoms instantly.
Amino acid based formula: These formulas are recommended for infant with severe CMA.
Lactose Free formula: These formulas are recommended for infant having issues with lactose digestion.
Some infants with CMA or lactose intolerance can benefits from Goat's milk based formulas. Goat's milk formulas are NOT lactose free but it does contain less lactose found in cow's milk. The benefits of using goat's milk is to make up of the protein and fats found in the cow's milk.
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