Navigating allergies and sensitivities in infants is a challenge for parents, especially when breastfeeding is not an option or there are needs to be supplemented. In both cases, finding the right baby formula is crucial to guarantee the baby will receive all the nutrients they need.
Continue reading this article to understand common allergens, baby formula options suitable for infants with allergies and sensitivities, and considerations on how to select the most appropriate formula for your child.
Does your baby suffer from allergies and sensitivities?
Unfortunately, infants can develop allergies and sensitivities to certain components found in baby formula. Some allergens are cow’s milk, lactose, soy, and specific proteins.
These allergies can manifest in many ways, some of the most common are digestive issues, skin rashes, or respiratory problems.
Sensitivities, on the other hand, might cause mild digestive discomfort, fussiness, or gas. As a parent, you must pay attention to how your baby reacts after getting fed with a baby formula to recognize these problems and ensure the health and well-being of your little one.
Baby formula alternatives for navigating allergies and sensitivities
There are plenty of alternatives of baby formulas suitable for infants dealing with allergies and sensitivities: hypoallergenic formulas, extensively hydrolyzed formulas, amino acid-based formulas, lactose-free formulas, anti-reflux formulas, soy-based formulas, and specialized formulas.
Hypoallergenic formulas
Hypoallergenic formulas are especially designed for babies with allergies or sensitivities. These formulas go through extensive processing to break down proteins into smaller and easily digestible particles. There are two types of hypoallergenic formulas:
- Extensively hydrolyzed formula is suitable for babies who have allergies or are likely to develop them.
- Amino acid-based formula contains predigested amino acids and are recommended for infants with severe allergies.
One notable brand that deserve mention is Kendamil. They offer a range of hypoallergenic formulas, including extensively hydrolyzed and amino acid-based options. Kendamil formula includes premium ingredients to ensure that infants with allergies or sensitivities can receive nutrients without dealing with adverse reactions.
Lactose-free formulas
These formulas are especially designed for babies with lactose intolerance, a condition in which the infant lacks the enzyme needed to digest this carbohydrate, using alternatives such as corn syrup or sucrose.
Anti-reflux formulas
Anti-reflux formulas are recommended to feed babies with gastroesophageal disease (GERD) or excessive spit-up, because they have a thicker consistency that reduces regurgitation and gastric reflux in babies.
Soy-based formulas
Soy-based formulas are organic baby formulas ideal for infants who are allergic or sensitive to cow’s milk because they are made from soy protein and don’t contain lactose.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional, because a small percentage of babies might have soy allergies too.
How to choose the right formula for your baby?
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a pediatrician when choosing a baby formula for navigating allergies and sensitivities.
These professionals can assess your baby’s nutritional requirements, the severity of the allergy or sensitivity, taste preference, weight, and age to ensure the selected formula meets your infant’s nutritional needs.
The healthcare professional can also consider the form of the formula (powdered, liquid, or easy-to-feed), the instructions to prepare the meal, and storage guidelines.
Remember, your baby is unique, that means you need to monitor your infant’s response to the formula chosen and keep in touch with the pediatrician for support.
In a nutshell, when choosing the right formula, you can rest assured that you provide your little one the nutrition they need while navigating allergies and sensitivities effectively.