Does Your Baby Have Cow's Milk Protein Allergy? Here Are The Best Alternatives To Try

Making sure the baby is fed and getting adequate nutrition is already a challenge for parents. But what happens when you discover your little one is allergic to cow’s milk protein? If you are breastfeeding, you may want to eliminate dairy from your diet. If you are unable, there are alternatives for babies with cow’s milk protein allergy.

What is CMPA?

Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy or CMPA happens when the immune system negatively reacts to the protein in milk of cows and other animals. CMPA is a common allergy among babies, usually occurring in those less than one year old.

Our immune system gives our bodies protection from viruses and bacteria. When we have CMPA, the immune system attacks the protein in milk of cows because it thinks it is harmful. Because of this reaction, the baby’s intestines and stomach can get damaged.   

Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy symptoms in a baby

CMPA has various symptoms. The common cow’s milk protein allergy symptoms in babies include diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, mucous and/or blood in stools. In some, symptoms include a runny nose, difficulty breathing, or a milk rash. 

These signs usually develop within a week of a baby being exposed to cow’s milk. 

Best alternatives for babies with Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA)

The kidneys of infants are not yet fully developed. Because of this, they cannot digest high protein milk. Fortunately, breast milk provides the adequate nutrition they need, including protein. 

If the baby has CMPA and you are unable to breastfeed, here are the best alternatives you can give. They all offer complete nutrition for your infants. It is best to consult with your doctor and get their approval before starting on any of these formulas. 

Enfamil Nutramigen LGG Stage 1

Best for 0-12 Months

Enfamil Nutramigen 1 with LGG is an example of an extensively hydrolysed protein milk formula. This type of milk breaks down casein into pieces. Casein is a cow’s milk protein that commonly causes allergy symptoms. 

Parents of babies with CMPA have given positive feedback regarding Enfamil Nutramigen. This milk also contains DHA and ARA, fatty acids that are crucial in the growth and development of your little one. 

Note that this lactose-free milk is not recommended for babies with galactosaemia.

Isomil Stage 1 Soy Infant Formula

Best Soy Formula

Isomil Stage 1 Soy Infant Formula is an example of high-quality soy protein milk. This particular variant is free from cow’s milk protein, and is naturally lactose-free. Because of this, it is suitable for babies with lactose intolerance.

In addition, Isomil is made with non-GMO ingredients. It also tryptophan and methioninet, essential amino acids in L forms.  

Consult your doctor if soy protein milk is appropriate for your baby with CMPA. This is because about eight to 14 percent of babies allergic to cow’s milk protein also have a reaction to soy. 

Nutricia Neocate LCP

Best Amino Acid-Based Formula

Nutricia Neocate LCP is an example of an amino acid-based formula. This type is composed of elemental amino acids, which are the building blocks for proteins. Amino-acid based formula is given to babies with CMPA who cannot tolerate extensively hydrolyzed formulas. 

Consult your doctor if this type is best for your baby, as this is usually given for a 12-week period with close monitoring. 

Nutricia Neocate LCP does not contain cow’s milk protein, and is manufactured in a cow’s milk-free facility. 

You may note some changes in your baby’s poo once they start taking this milk. Poo may turn greenish or dark. Your baby’s bowel movements may also decrease because of how Neocate is digested. 

Nestlé Alfaré

Best for Babies with Gastrointestinal Impairment

In addition to being suitable for babies with CMPA, Nestlé Alfaré is also recommended for those with gastrointestinal impairment. This is because it offers effective first-line relief from the symptoms of the said conditions.

It is possible with the milk’s extensively hydrolyzed, lactose-free, hypoallergenic, whey-based formula

In addition, this milk contains 2’fucosyllactose (2’FL) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT). These are human milk oligosaccharides (HMO), complex carbohydrates that help support the development of your baby’s immune system.

Aptamil AllerPro Syneo Step 3

Best for Toddlers

The risk for CMPA usually decreases as children get older. However, if your toddler still has a reaction to milk high in protein of cows, Aptamil AllerPro SYNEO is a good choice.

This milk is another example of an extensively hydrolyzed formula. It is suitable for babies 12 months onwards with allergy to cow’s milk protein or soy protein. 

Aptamilk AllerPro Syneo contains a patented blend of prebiotics and probiotics. These are essential in the development of your baby’s digestive and immune systems. 

Price Comparison

Milk alternatives for babies with cow’s milk protein allergy may be costly, so it is wise to research and consult with your doctor for the best fit. Here’s a look at the prices of brands we recommend to help with your purchase. 

Note: Each item and price is up to date as of publication, however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.

For other milk types, read: UHT Milk Brands in Singapore to Add in Your Dairy Favorites