Q: How can I tell if my baby is allergic to lactose?

Answered by: Dr Adzlina Jaaffar, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Gleneagles Kuala Lumpur (GKL)

It is rare to be born with lactose intolerance (primary lactose intolerance). This is a form of metabolic disorder and the baby will fail to thrive from birth, i.e. the baby will not have any weight gain from birth and will be dehydrated and malnourish.

The lactose intolerance that we commonly see can occur at any age. It is due to some damage to the inner lining of the gut either by infection, allergy or inflammation. The inner lining of the gut is responsible in the production of the enzyme lactase which is needed for the breakdown of lactose (present in milk). It is a temporary condition and you are advised to continue breast feeding your baby as the breastmilk will assist in the gut healing. However, is you are using formula milk, your paediatrician may advise you to use lactose-free formula milk for the time being.

Many are using the term lactose intolerance and cow’s milk protein allergy interchangeably. These are two separate and different conditions. Baby with cow’s milk protein allergy may have symptoms of severe colic and/or diarrhoea right after feeding. The symptoms improved after the baby stop taking cows/formula milk. This is commonly seen if there is a strong family history of allergies.

Hence it is very important for babies to be monitored by the health professional after delivery. The scheduled visit to the clinics is not merely for vaccinations. The growth of the baby and the development milestone will be assessed too.