Infant Formula Allergies:
Man-Made Nutrition
Generally any infant formula allergies are not noticeable immediately at birth. The formula itself is used to support the nutrition and growth of your new child from approximately birth to six months of age. This is only started though when the mother either medically or consciously makes the decision not to breastfeed.
All types of formulas are made up of four different component parts. This is because the human body- even little ones- are dependent on these four to survive. The four main components are:
- Proteins - which are usually purified cow's milk (containing both casein and whey) or some brands use the soy bean as its protein source. Some babies do need hydrolyzed formulas though which are processed to remove almost all of the proteins for babies which are sensitive.
- Fats - which is a blend of vegetable oil(s)
- Carbohydrates - from a source of lactose
- Vitamins and Minerals - formulas do generally have fortified enhancements to replace some of the nutrient content lost in processing.
Formula Imperfections
Even with all the continuous testing and research there is still three properties of formulas which can not match the quality of a mother's breast milk. These include:
- the complete chemical breakdown of mother's milk can not be identified in its entirety
- a mother's breast milk is in constant transition because as a baby grows and matures, it will have different nutritional requirements. A mother's breast milk does evolve and change to meet these daily requirements
- the newborn will lack the antibodies that is present in the mother's milk. Often this will lead to a formula fed baby showing more signs of frequent illnesses, disease, infections or the lack of support from a strong immune system.
Symptoms Of Infant Formula Allergies
Formula allergies are usually discovered first because the baby will try to push away its food and refuse to eat. Notify your doctor of this immediately. Usually a different type of formula will be recommended that is more to your baby's liking. But if you notice any of the following on a repetitive basis: log the pertinent details such as date and time, how much and any unusual symptoms such as:
- spits up frequently
- vomiting
- colic signs and symptoms seem to last for the whole year
- continuous diarrhea or constipation
- excessive perspiration which requires changing your baby's clothing sometimes six or more times a day.
So with some careful observation and logging of pertinent details, often you can track down the source of your baby's problem with some help from the child's doctor. If you fear any possible infant formula allergies, do not waste any time bringing this information to the attention of your child's doctor.
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*Disclaimer*
This site is not intended to replace the advice and supervision of your professional medical treatment plan. Although all of the information is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge, we still recommend you carefully check all food labels before consuming any food product. We can not assume any legal responsibility for any illness obtained while following the advice contained on this site.
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