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Alternatives to Milk for Babies

If your baby is cranky and uncomfortable after feedings, ask your pediatrician to test for milk allergies. Some babies cannot tolerate cow's milk protein found in dairy products. There are many alternatives to milk for babies.

  1. Hydrolyzed Formula

    • Hydrolyzed formula has cow's milk proteins broken down into tiny particles. The cow's milk proteins are less allergenic than those of whole protein formulas. Most babies with milk allergy can tolerate this.

    Amino Acid-Based Formula

    • Amino acid-based formula has proteins in the purest form. This type of formula might be the best choice if your baby cannot tolerate the hydrolyzed formula.

    Mother's Milk

    • Mother's milk is a great alternative for those babies with milk allergies. But if you are breastfeeding a baby with a milk allergy, you will need to cut all dairy products out of your diet. The cow's milk protein will transfer from the breast milk to the baby.

    Soy Formula

    • Depending on the severity of the milk allergy, try soy formula. Many babies with a milk allergy can tolerate soy by six months.

    Rice Milk or Goat's Milk

    • If your baby is a year old or older, you can give rice milk or goat's milk. Be sure to check with your pediatrician when you are switching a baby from formula or breast milk to a milk product.

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