When it comes to infant nutrition, special formulas can play a crucial role for babies with specific dietary needs or medical conditions.
These formulas are designed to address issues like allergies, lactose intolerance, or protein sensitivity.
Let’s dive into the different types of special infant formulas available and when they might be necessary.
Table of Contents:
- Hydrolyzed Formulas Breaking Down Proteins for Easier Digestion and Allergy Reduction. Click to Jump
- Soy-Based Formulas: An Alternative for Lactose Intolerance, Not Allergy Prevention. Click to Jump
- Goat’s Milk Formulas: Not recommended for preventing or treating allergies. Click to Jump
- Amino Acid-Based Formulas: The Best Bet for Severe Allergies. Click to Jump
- Formulas with Probiotics or Prebiotics: Insufficient Evidence for Allergy Prevention. Click to Jump
- Lifestyle Recommendations: Get practical tips on lifestyle adjustments that can help reduce allergy risks in infants. Click to Jump
Hydrolysed Formulas
Hydrolysed formulas are cow’s milk-based formulas that have been processed to break down the proteins into smaller particles, making them easier to digest and less likely to cause allergic reactions.
These formulas, particularly the extensively hydrolysed ones (eHF), are often recommended for infants at high risk of developing allergies.
Studies have shown that eHF can significantly reduce the risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) compared to regular cow’s milk formulas (von Berg and co-authors, 2007).
For example, a family with a history of AD might find that switching to an eHF can lower the chances of their baby developing similar conditions.
However, it’s important to note that while hydrolysed formulas can be beneficial, they are not a cure-all and are primarily used for babies who already have proven cow’s milk allergies or significant nutritional problems (Maldonado and co-authors, 1998).
Soy-Based Formulas
Soy-based formulas are an alternative for infants who cannot tolerate cow’s milk, particularly for those with lactose intolerance, galactosemia, or hereditary lactase deficiency.
These formulas are made from soy protein and are lactose-free. However, they are not recommended for allergy prevention and may even worsen atopic conditions with prolonged use (Dipasquale and co-authors, 2020).
Research indicates that soy formulas are not effective in preventing allergies and may exacerbate atopic conditions in some infants (Osborn & Sinn, 2004).
There are concerns about the potential long-term effects of isoflavones in soy on an infant’s developing neuroendocrine system, although no conclusive evidence has confirmed these effects.
Goat’s Milk Formulas
Goat’s milk formulas might seem like a good alternative for infants with cow’s milk allergies, but they are generally not recommended.
Despite being marketed as a hypoallergenic option, many infants who are allergic to cow’s milk proteins are also allergic to goat’s milk proteins.
There is no substantial evidence supporting the use of goat’s milk formulas in preventing or treating allergic diseases (Muraro and co-authors, 2002).
Amino Acid-Based Formulas
Amino acid-based formulas, also known as elemental formulas, are composed of individual amino acids and are the least likely to cause allergic reactions. These highly specialized formulas are used for infants with severe allergies who cannot tolerate hydrolyzed formulas.
They are particularly beneficial for infants with multiple food allergies or severe cow’s milk protein allergy (Parekh & Bahna, 2016).
Formulas with Probiotics or Prebiotics
Some infant formulas contain probiotics or prebiotics intended to mimic the benefits of these components found in breast milk.
However, the evidence supporting their use for preventing allergic diseases is insufficient, and their routine use is not recommended (Fiocchi and co-authors, 2015).
Lifestyle Recommendations
In addition to choosing the right formula, certain lifestyle adjustments can help reduce allergy risks. Ensuring a smoke-free environment and avoiding smoking during pregnancy are crucial steps.
Breastfeeding, when possible, is highly recommended as it provides the best nutrition and protection against allergies.
If breastfeeding is not an option, using hydrolyzed formulas may help reduce the incidence of allergic diseases in high-risk infants.
Special infant formulas provide vital alternatives for infants with specific needs, but they must be chosen carefully and used under medical guidance to ensure the best outcomes for the baby’s health.