Can My Baby Have Lactose Free Formula

Lactose is one of the most important carbohydrates in breast milk and milk based formula and provides many benefits to babies.

Can my baby have lactose free formula.

Depending on the type of lactose intolerance your baby has you. 4 babies with galactosemia cannot tolerate breastmilk and must be given lactose free formula that is not derived from cow s milk. Most major formula manufacturers make specialized formulas for babies with all types of allergies. Babies who were born full term can suffer from lactose intolerance for a short period of time if they had diarrhea.

This may require your baby to drink lactose free formula. True lactose intolerance harsh digestive issues that occur after ingesting milk or milk products is extremely rare in infants. Breast milk naturally contains lactose. Lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme lactase which breaks down lactose milk sugar so it can be easily digested.

Babies who suffer from lactose intolerance can still have milk or formula that is made from cow s milk but it would just have to be lactose free. When children are diagnosed with lactose intolerance avoiding milk and other dairy products will relieve symptoms. They may have you feed your baby formula that s free from cow s milk or ask you avoid cow s milk if you re breastfeeding. As they grow older and wean the lactase enzyme decreases.

If your baby is allergic to lactose or even if they have a mild version of lactose intolerance you will need to feed them a formula that is lactose free. Diarrhea may force the child to lose the lactase enzyme. The condition is diagnosed at birth through newborn screening tests or might be detected prenatally. However lactose sensitivity in babies is temporary and fairly common.

All babies are born with lactose in their intestines. For bottle fed babies with lactose intolerance your gp will probably advise you to switch to a lactose free formula milk. Taking dairy or lactose out of your diet will not reduce the lactose in your breast milk. Once your baby starts eating solids you may need to reduce or eliminate dairy products from his diet.

Lactose is the sugar found in all dairy products including both breast milk and formula.