Cow’s milk protein allergy is a common condition affecting infants and young children, causing an adverse reaction to the proteins found in cow’s milk. This allergy can manifest in various ways, including digestive issues, skin rashes, and respiratory problems. Recognising and managing this allergy early is crucial for your child's comfort and health. Written by BabyYumyum.
The incidence of food allergy is very low in breastfed infants when compared with formula‑fed infants. Once cow’s milk proteins are introduced to a baby, in the case of partial breastfeeding or exclusive formula feeding, the risk of a reaction to cow’s milk proteins increases.
Paediatric guidelines indicate that extensively hydrolysed formulas such as Novalac Allernova Smooth, Pepticate, Similac Allimentum and Alfaré should be the first dietary treatment option for babies reacting to cow’s milk protein.
What does extensively hydrolysed formula mean?
These formulas are defined as cow’s milk-based formulas treated with enzymes in order to break down most of the proteins that cause symptoms in allergic infants. What this also means is that the protein content is broken down into smaller proteins, making it easier for baby to digest. Partially hydrolysed formulas are often recommended by healthcare professionals as a preventative measure for allergy-prone infants or those with a family history of allergies.
“All amino acid-based formulas are lactose-free so as not to aggravate a baby’s delicate digestive symptoms, as well as to limit the risk of bringing tiny specks of proteins to the formula that may cause a reaction in sensitive babies.”
Extensively hydrolysed formulas are indicated for the treatment of a cow’s milk protein allergy. Remember, if you ever do want to feed these formulas to your little one, it is best to do so on your healthcare professional’s advice. The reality is that some infants and young children can still react to these formulas. For these babies, and babies with severe cow’s milk allergy, amino acid-based formulas should be used. There are only three amino acid-based formulas on the South African market that we are aware of: Neocate (Nutricia), Neomino (Cipla) and Novalac Aminova (Pharmaco).
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Novalac Aminova is the “new kid on the block” and comes with very attractive packaging.
Since it’s a rather new product on the market, we thought it would be useful to look into the composition of the formula to determine if there is anything unique to it, apart from its packaging. The amino-acid profile of Novalac Aminova mimics the amino acid profile of breast milk, allowing adequate protein intakes. It is adapted to the nutritional needs of infants and young children and supports safe and normal growth. All amino acid-based formulas are lactose-free so as not to aggravate a baby’s delicate digestive symptoms, as well as to limit the risk of bringing tiny specks of proteins to the formula that may cause a reaction in sensitive babies. This particular formula is also free of any other common allergens such as soy and fish oil.
What makes this product different to the other products on the market is the fact that it contains a unique thickener. This thickening agent has been clinically proven to improve a baby’s digestive comfort by having an effective action on the thickening of gastric bolus (which manages reflux) and the consistency of baby poo. Not only are you managing the cause of the problem (allergy to cow’s milk protein), but also the common symptoms associated with a cow’s milk protein allergy.
Disclaimer: BabyYumYum reserves the right to its opinions and fully supports the notion of promotion that breast is best in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO) infant feeding guidelines http://www.who.int/topics/infant_nutrition/en/. Breast milk is the best food for infants. Good maternal nutrition is essential to prepare and maintain breastfeeding. If breastfeeding is not applied, an infant formula may be used according to the advice of a healthcare professional. Preparation and storage of any infant formula should be performed as directed on the tin in order not to pose any health hazards.
NEXT READ: Must-know: how to choose a baby formula
FAQs on Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy
What is a cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA)?
Cow’s milk protein allergy is an immune response to one or both of the proteins found in cow’s milk, namely casein and whey. It is a common food allergy in infants and young children.
What are the symptoms of cow’s milk protein allergy?
Symptoms can include skin reactions (such as hives and eczema), digestive problems (like vomiting, diarrhoea, and colic), respiratory issues (such as wheezing and nasal congestion), and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
How is cow’s milk protein allergy diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, symptom evaluation, elimination diets, and sometimes allergy testing such as skin prick tests or blood tests for specific IgE antibodies.
What is the difference between cow’s milk protein allergy and lactose intolerance?
CMPA is an immune response to milk proteins, while lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk, due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase. CMPA can cause allergic reactions, whereas lactose intolerance primarily causes digestive discomfort.
What are the treatment options for cow’s milk protein allergy?
The primary treatment is the elimination of cow’s milk and dairy products from the diet. In infants, this often involves switching to hypoallergenic formulas such as extensively hydrolysed formulas or amino acid-based formulas.
Can children outgrow cow’s milk protein allergy?
Yes, many children outgrow CMPA by the age of 3 to 5 years, but this varies. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress and determine when it may be safe to reintroduce cow’s milk.
What are hypoallergenic formulas, and when are they used?
Hypoallergenic formulas are specially processed to break down milk proteins into smaller, less allergenic components. They include partially hydrolysed, extensively hydrolysed, and amino acid-based formulas, used based on the severity of the allergy.
How can breastfeeding mothers manage cow’s milk protein allergy in their babies?
Breastfeeding mothers can manage CMPA by eliminating all sources of cow’s milk and dairy products from their diet. This should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure nutritional adequacy.
Are there any non-dairy milk alternatives suitable for children with CMPA?
Suitable non-dairy milk alternatives include soy milk, rice milk, almond milk, and oat milk. However, it’s important to choose fortified options and consult a healthcare provider to ensure they meet the child’s nutritional needs.
What should parents do if they suspect their child has cow’s milk protein allergy?
If CMPA is suspected, parents should consult a paediatrician or an allergist. The healthcare provider can guide diagnosis, recommend suitable dietary changes, and provide management strategies to ensure the child’s health and well-being.
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