Pediatric Care

Hypoallergenic Formula: The Ultimate Guide

 

Every new parent gets nervous when feeding their newborn child. For those who opt for pediatric formula, approximately 80% of the formula on the market is cow milk-based. What happens if your infant is one of the unfortunate few who are allergic to cow milk? Your baby may have severe allergies, intolerance to formula, or even a gastrointestinal (GI) condition. This is where a hypoallergenic formula might be your best option. Let’s see if I can give you some information on hypoallergenic formulas. Visit HPFY not only for your infant’s feeding needs but also for hypoallergenic formula.

Newborns and Formula

Types of Hypoallergenic Formulas

Unfortunately, for babies with allergies to cow milk, this milk protein alteration is not enough, leading to rashes, digestive issues, and excessive crying. Nobody wants that!! This is why hypoallergenic baby formula is your best option. There are four types of hypoallergenic formulas you may want to examine, and they are:

• Partially Hydrolyzed:

  Since smaller milk proteins are easier to digest for babies, this type of hypoallergenic baby formula contains partially broken-down cow’s milk proteins.

• Extensively Hydrolyzed:

  This type of hypoallergenic formula contains further broken-down cow’s milk proteins. This creates a much smaller milk protein that is easier to digest.

• Free Amino Based:

  While this type of hypoallergenic formula contains no cow’s protein, it does have the building blocks of these proteins called amino acids. If your child continues with GI issues after using other hypoallergenic formulas, this might be your best option.

• Soy Formula:

  This can be an option, but 8%-14% of infants with a cow’s milk allergy may react to soy. Also, GI conditions such as enterocolitis or allergic proctocolitis can cause 25%-60% of infants a chance of a reaction. 

When Does The Baby Need a Hypoallergenic Formula?

So, how does your doctor determine if your infant truly needs hypoallergenic formula? Some symptoms you or your doctor may want to be on the lookout for include:

• Bloody stool
• Constipation
• Child not gaining weight
• Vomiting after feeding
• Rash developing after feeding

You would think that since hypoallergenic baby formula is easier to digest for babies with potential allergies, it would be appropriate for everyone. However, studies have shown that using hypoallergenic formulas doesn’t prevent a baby from developing an allergy, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using them only when medically necessary.

What To Expect

If your doctor recommends that your baby use a hypoallergenic formula, what exactly should you look for? Yes, hypoallergenic formula for babies can deliver the nutrition necessary to develop and grow, but after you switch, you may notice:

• Unusual Smell/Taste: Hypoallergenic formula does smell differently from the standard formula and even has a slightly bitter taste. Fortunately, your baby won’t react to this since they are too young.
• Different Look: Compared to standard formula, hypoallergenic baby formula for babies can be waterier and may even be clearer; this is normal.
• Diaper Difference: Your child’s poop will look and smell a little different once you start using a hypoallergenic formula. If you have been experiencing diarrhea with standard formulas, you may see more solid, formed stool. Yellowish or green-colored stools may also be experienced.
• Expense: Yeah, these specialized, hypoallergenic formulas require more work to create, so they are more expensive. If your doctor recommends a hypoallergenic formula, check with your insurer to see if it may be covered under your plan.

Our Best Hypoallergenic Infant Formulas