Is breast milk ok for lactose intolerant babies?

Understanding Lactose Intolerance in Babies
Lactose intolerance in infants is a topic that often raises concerns among new parents. While it is a common condition in adults, it is relatively rare in babies. Human breast milk contains lactose, a natural sugar that plays a crucial role in an infant’s development and nutrition. The question arises: is breast milk suitable for babies who are lactose intolerant?
The Role of Lactose in Breast Milk
Breast milk is composed of various nutrients essential for a baby’s growth, and lactose is a significant component. It not only provides energy but also aids in the absorption of calcium and promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. According to health experts, breast milk remains the optimal source of nutrition for infants, even for those who may experience lactose intolerance.
Lactose Intolerance in Infants
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks sufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose. In infants, this condition is often temporary and can arise after gastrointestinal infections or illnesses. In such cases, continuing to breastfeed is generally recommended, as breast milk can help heal the gut and boost the immune system.
Interestingly, the lactose found in breast milk is typically well-tolerated by most infants, even those who may show signs of lactose intolerance. This is because the condition is often not due to an inability to digest lactose itself but rather a temporary disruption in gut health.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For breastfeeding mothers concerned about their baby’s potential lactose intolerance, it is important to note that dietary changes in the mother, such as eliminating dairy, do not significantly affect the lactose content of breast milk. Instead, healthcare professionals suggest that mothers continue breastfeeding, as it provides essential nutrients and supports the baby’s overall health.
In cases where a baby is diagnosed with lactose intolerance, healthcare providers may recommend lactose-free formulas if the baby is not gaining weight or is malnourished. However, this is typically a last resort, as breast milk is still considered the best option for most infants.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk is generally safe and beneficial for babies, even those who may experience lactose intolerance. The presence of lactose in breast milk is not usually a cause for concern, and breastfeeding can provide numerous health benefits that support an infant’s development. Parents should consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice, especially if they suspect their baby has lactose intolerance.

Does dairy in breastmilk make babies gassy?

While most foods won’t cause GI issues in breastfed babies, we do know that any foods containing cow milk protein are the most commonly reported food substance to cause gas and fussiness in infants.

What does lactose intolerant baby poop look like?

Loose poop
Your baby may experience frequent watery, foul-smelling loose poops if they have a cow’s milk protein allergy. You may also notice mucus in the stool, and your little one may be gassy and colicky. Babies with diarrhea may quickly become dehydrated, so calling your doctor is recommended.

Does lactose cause gas in breastfed babies?

However, some infants may be lactose intolerant. Gas, diarrhea, and other symptoms may occur. Lactose is actually a combination of two sugars. To digest lactose, the body needs to break it down into those two sugars, glucose and galactose, which are monosaccharides.

Which baby formula has the least lactose?

Lactose-free baby formula is a cow’s milk-based formula that is free of lactose, made for infants who have trouble digesting lactose, which is the sugar found in milk. Examples of lactose-free formulas include Similac Sensitive, Similac Alimentum, Enfamil NeuroPro Sensitive and Enfamil A+ Lactose Free.

Can a baby with dairy intolerance breastfeeding?

If your baby reacts to cow’s milk proteins in your breast milk, you will be advised to avoid milk (dairy) whilst breastfeeding. This is usually done as a trial for between 4 to 6 weeks to see if your baby’s symptoms improve. If they do not, and you were following the diet strictly, you can return to your normal diet.

What milk is best for baby with dairy intolerance?

☒ Recommend lactose free formula (Aptamil LF®, SMA LF®, Enfamil O-Lac®) for infants with CMPA*. over 1 year who previously tolerated cow’s milk (they can use Arla Lactofree whole® or Alpro growing up drink® from supermarkets).

Do babies grow out of lactose intolerance?

If your child has a milk allergy, you will need to alter their diet to avoid milk and dairy products completely. Many young children grow out of both lactose intolerance and milk allergy, but be sure to speak to your doctor before removing or reintroducing milk into your child’s diet.

Does breast milk upset baby’s stomach?

Your breast milk doesn’t exactly make your baby gassy. “Preventing gas, fussiness and colic might take a bit of trial and error and eliminating and reintroducing certain foods and drinks into the mom’s diet,” Rebecca said.

Can lactose intolerant babies drink breastmilk?

Your baby may have lactose intolerance without ever having had infectious diarrhoea, but the enzyme will increase with age, so there is no need to stop breastfeeding unless the lactose intolerance is severe, causing dehydration or poor growth.

What milk can I give my lactose intolerant baby?

Until the age of 1, it is important that your baby drinks at least 600ml (20 ounces) a day of a lactose-free formula to receive sufficient nutrients, especially calcium. If your baby is over 1 year, then a supermarket alternative such as Arla lactofree whole milk drink or Alpro Growing Up soya drink can be used.