Learn the difference between reflux and milk allergies and when they can be related.
Parenthood is an incredible journey filled with joy, but it also comes with its fair share of questions and concerns. One common puzzle many parents face is deciphering whether their baby's discomfort is due to reflux or a milk allergy. In this article, we'll explore these issues together, offering insights and tips to help you and your little one.
CMPA (Cow's Milk Protein Allergy) is a condition where a baby has an allergic reaction to a protein found in cow’s milk. Sometimes the reaction can manifest as reflux. Reflux itself is when acid in the stomach travels up the throat, which can be irritating and painful. Reflux can be triggered by many different things, while CMPA is only triggered by a specific protein in cow’s milk.
The difference between CMPA and Lactose intolerance is commonly misunderstood. A Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) is a condition in which a baby's immune system reacts negatively to the proteins found in cow's milk. CMPA is common in infants and different from lactose intolerance, which is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk.
The duration of reflux in babies can be quite different from one little one to another. In many cases, reflux tends to be most noticeable around 4 months of age but often gets better as they reach their first birthday. However, remember that each baby is unique, and some may experience reflux for a bit longer. If your baby's reflux seems to be causing them discomfort or continues beyond what you'd expect, it's a good idea to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance and support.
If your baby is experiencing reflux, you can try things that help them eat more comfortably such as:
Breast milk, including expressed (pumped) breast milk, is not known to cause acid reflux. If your breastfed baby is experiencing acid reflux, it may be helpful to adjust your feeding position, burp them often, and offer smaller, more frequent feedings.Your doctor should be able to connect you with a lactation support specialist to support you and your baby through this phase.
Statistically speaking, there is a higher prevalence of formula-fed babies who experience reflux compared to exclusively breastfed babies2. One reason for this is likely the prevalence of cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA), and babies who are allergic to common milk protein in formula can experience reflux. In those instances, your doctor may recommend changing to a formula such as Nutramigen®, which is designed to be suitable for babies with cow’s milk protein allergy.
Your doctor may recommend a change in formula if your baby is experiencing acid reflux. Formulas like Enfamil® A.R™ are designed to reduce reflux and frequent spit-up due to their thicker consistency that helps the formula stay down and settle in the stomach.
As with most things, practice makes perfect—and rest assured, you’ll get plenty of diaper-changing practice those first couple of years. In no time you’ll be a pro and be able to tackle your baby’s diaper with confidence. For more tips and resources on all things baby, including nutrition and feeding, be sure to join Enfamil Family Beginnings®. Enjoy up to $400 in savings, plus exclusive rewards, support, and surprises.
Join NowAll information on Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil.
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