For a parent of a little one with unique needs, getting the proper nutrition can feel overwhelming. But the key to finding a milk drink for little ones with allergies is focusing on high-quality ingredients that are gentle and hypoallergenic.
Here we’re putting forward general recommendations on choosing an infant milk drink for allergic little ones and switching to it. Keep your head up – you can give your little one a healthy start in life.
When to switch to a milk drink for little ones with allergies
If your little one seems irritable, gassy or isn’t gaining weight, they may have an allergy or sensitivity to their milk drink. Watch out for these red flags that say it’s time to change the nutrition type:
- Inconsolable crying or excessive irritability. Food allergies account for discomfort and pain in tiny tummies.
- Gas or frequent spit-ups. Allergens in milk drink can lead to poor digestion and gas formation.
- Loose stools or diarrhoea. Adverse food reactions often cause changes in stool consistency and frequency.
- Eczema, hives or rash. Allergic little ones may develop skin conditions, especially on the face.
- Poor weight gain or growth. If your infant isn’t gaining weight steadily, allergies could be the culprit.
The good news is there are friendly and healing options for milk drink for little ones with allergies – like Baby Steps products – that can provide the nutrition your little sweetheart requires. Within a week or two of switching, you should see a happier, more comfortable infant with better digestion and less irritability.
Goat milk – A great alternative for little ones with allergies
Goat milk’s proteins and fat molecules are more readily broken down during digestion than cow’s milk. That’s why a goat milk drink for little ones with allergies is less likely to trigger a reaction as it is:
- Gentle on sensitive tummies– Your little one should tolerate the proteins in goat milk because they are structurally similar to human milk proteins.
- Nutrient-packed– Goat milk is fortified to meet the nutritional needs of all infants, as it contains essential minerals, proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates and healthy fats.
- Highly digestible– With medium-chain triglycerides galore, goat milk is less likely to cause tummy troubles.
Goat milk drink for little ones with allergies are rich in calcium, phosphorus and conjugated linoleic acid, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. This may provide relief from colic, reflux and eczema in infants. The anti-inflammatory effects may also boost the immune system and support healthy brain and bone development.
Tips for transitioning to a milk drink for little ones with allergies
Don’t go cold turkey. Start by mixing a small amount (25%) of the new milk drink with your existing one. Increase it by about 25% every 3-4 days as your little one adjusts to the taste and texture. However, there’s no set timetable, so take your cue from your little human. This gradual approach will minimise tummy troubles and make the transition gentler on their sensitive system.
Your little one may be fussier than usual during the transition. Take care of extra cuddles, swaddling, shushing and pacifier sucking to soothe them.
Avoiding ingredients that trigger reactions (including artificial colours, sugars and synthetic preservatives) when switching to a new nutrition type is essential. Stick to all-natural, organic milk drink for little ones with allergies. Once you discover the perfect food, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing your little one’s allergies are under control.