Is cow's milk allergy common?

Yes, many babies are allergic to cow's milk protein. This common childhood food allergy affects up to 240,000 infants in the United States.

I’ve heard that breastfeeding can keep my baby from developing allergies. Does this apply to cow’s milk protein allergy?

Although the incidence of cow’s milk protein allergy is very low in breastfed infants compared to formula-fed infants, it does happen. It is not an allergy to breast milk itself. Instead, the allergy usually begins after proteins, including cow’s milk protein, are passed from mom to her baby through breast milk. The symptoms may begin right away or it’s even possible for some very sensitive breastfed babies to develop a milk allergy from breast milk but not have a reaction until they actually drink cow’s milk.

If you are breastfeeding and your baby is showing allergic symptoms, elimination of common allergens such as cow’s milk, eggs, fish, peanuts, and tree nuts (e.g., almonds, pecans, and Brazil nuts) from your diet could help relieve the symptoms. It’s best, though, to check with your doctor or dietitian, to let them guide you on what to eat while breastfeeding.

If this doesn’t help the symptoms, check with your baby’s doctor.

How do you manage the risk of gestational diabetes?

By a carefully planned diet. By gentle exercise. And most of all, by working with your doctor.

I'm a vegetarian. How can I be sure I'm providing my baby the right nutrition during pregnancy?

You need to be sure you're getting enough protein, vitamins D, B12 and calcium from your diet. Consult our Nutrient Guide to find alternative sources for these important nutrients and calories. Asking your doctor if you need vitamin supplements in addition to your Prenatal Vitamins is a good idea as well.

Is it true that I need more protein the last two trimesters of my pregnancy?

Very true. About 25 g more per day. Vegetarians combine complementary protein foods, such as beans and rice, to get the essential amino acids needed.

Is there a way I can breastfeed and formula-feed, just for a little break?

Many women supplement their breastfeeding with formula now and then, or while they're at work. It's best to wait until your milk supply is established and your baby is comfortable with breastfeeding. A good time to start is when your baby is around six weeks old.

Should I be getting extra vitamins in my diet during my pregnancy?

That passenger of yours needs a lot more than just a ride in your belly, especially at this point in your pregnancy. You and your baby need a full range of nutrients, including folic acid, iron, zinc and calcium. Plus, your baby will try to take all the nutrients he needs, even if it means putting you at a deficit. Most doctors recommend a prenatal vitamin supplement, starting even before you are pregnant.

Why don't babies drink cow's milk?

No type of cow's milk has the right nutrient levels for infants. Mainly, it's too low in iron and vitamin C, and too high in protein, sodium, potassium and chloride for your baby's developing kidneys.