Lactose intolerance is a common condition that affects both children and adults alike. It occurs when the body cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. While this condition is manageable in adults, it can be particularly challenging for infants who rely on milk as their primary source of nutrition.
Finding the best baby food is vital for you to counter this challenge. “As a parent, I wanted to give my baby the best possible start in life, meaning providing her with breast milk or formula as their primary source of nutrition,” shares Babysbestfood‘s nutrition expert. “However, I realized she was lactose intolerant, which posed a challenge when it came to finding the right food for her.”
The good news is that there are many ways to deal with lactose intolerance in infants and still provide them with the vital nutrients they need to grow and develop. According to a post by Mom Blog Society, considering plant-based formulas is one of the ways to counter lactose intolerance in infants.
Switch to Lactose-Free Formula
If your baby is formula-fed, switching to a lactose-free formula can be a straightforward way to manage lactose intolerance. These formulas contain a different type of carbohydrate that is easier for your baby to digest while still providing all the necessary nutrients for growth and development.
Breastfeed with a Lactose-Free Diet
What you eat as a lactating mother affects your baby as well. Try modifying your diet to be lactose-free. This means avoiding dairy products and other foods that contain lactose, like some types of bread and cereal. Speak to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for guidance on modifying your diet while ensuring your baby gets all the nutrients they need.
Offer Small, Frequent Feedings
Lactose intolerance can cause discomfort and digestive upset, so offering smaller, more frequent feedings can help reduce these symptoms. This allows your baby’s digestive system to process the lactose more gradually, which may be easier on their system.
Try Lactase Drops
Lactase is an enzyme that helps break down lactose, and lactase drops can be added to breast milk or formula to help your baby digest lactose more easily. Speak to your healthcare provider about whether lactase drops are a suitable option for your baby.
Plant-Based Formulas
According to a post by Mom Blog Society, considering plant-based formulas is one of the ways to counter lactose intolerance in infants. Plant-based formulas were invented in the early 1900s but were not as popular because the term lactose intolerance was not common to most people. Many parents now opt for plant-based formulas as they have been categorized as healthier options.
Consult with a Pediatrician
Suppose your baby is showing signs of lactose intolerance including bloating, stomach pain, frequent diarrhea, difficulty gaining weight, irritability and failure to settle during feeding time. In that case, it is important to consult with a pediatrician to get a proper diagnosis and develop an appropriate management plan. They may recommend additional strategies, such as probiotics or other dietary modifications, to help manage your baby’s symptoms.
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