Lactose Intolerance in Babies

A new-born child with lactose intolerance can be a daunting thing to deal with, considering its reliance on breastmilk or on formula, which both contain lactose. Babies need the nutrients in milk products, like calcium, which is particularly important for a baby and bone growth.

Lactose intolerance is rare in babies, as most cases of lactose intolerance happen in adults when the body slowly loses its ability to produce lactase naturally or as a temporary intolerance resulting from damage to the digestive system (primary and secondary causes). The final (and much rarer) cause, congenital lactase deficiency, is a genetic inability to produce the enzyme lactase.

The symptoms of lactose intolerance in babies and children are similar to those of an adult, and can include flatulence, diarrhoea or stomach bloating and pain. Such symptoms are caused by the body’s inability to produce enough lactase, the enzyme which breaks down lactose in the gut. This means that lactose stays in the intestine and causes discomfort. Signs of lactose intolerance can occur a short time after the milk sugar has been taken into the body, usually between half an hour and three hours.

However, the signs and symptoms which might indicate that a baby is lactose intolerant can be similar to other conditions, such as different gastrointestinal problems, intolerances to various food chemicals which the baby may come into contact with through breastmilk or sensitivity to the protein beta-lactoglobulin. This is why it’s always best to consult a GP if there is a reason for concern!

The GP or paediatrician will be able to advise a diet plan depending on the severity of the intolerance as well as inform the best way to manage the baby’s nutrition, as the severity of different cases of lactose intolerance can vary. Some babies, for example, may be able to tolerate lactose in small amounts and others might need lactase drops to help their bodies break down the milk sugar which they consume.

MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT LACTOSE INTOLERANCE IN BABIES

-A breastfeeding mother can stop eating dairy products to reduce lactose in her breast milk.
Beware- this is NOT true, milk from all mammals contains lactose regardless of what they eat.

-Soya formula can be a simple and straightforward substitute for every lactose intolerant baby.
Always consult a doctor. Alternative milk formulas often have age specifications, soya formula is not recommend for babies under 6 months.

-A lactose intolerant mother can’t breastfeed.
It’s absolutely fine for a lactose intolerant mother to breastfeed their baby, lactose intolerance is not contagious.

-A lactose intolerant baby will always be lactose intolerant.
Each case is different, some may always have an intolerance to milk sugar and others may slowly grow out of it and fully recover.

If you suspect your baby of lactose intolerance or if they show any symptoms and complaints, always consult a GP or your health visitor.