soya milk

[BethHx]

Isabelle is now on soya milk off the doctors and is so much better now on it but i just wanted to know is it ok to be on it long term? is it bad for babies not to have dairy in their diet etc x

 

[skunkpixie]

The Soy formula will still have all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals needed for healthy growth and developement, but just not from a dairy source.
Before you start to introduce solids, speak to your doc or HV about what to avoid giving her and let them know your concerns about making sure she is getting everything she needs. They may suggest a vit&min suppliment. Sorry my knowledge on living a dairy-free lifestyle is limited. xxx

 

[sapphire1]

Tbh soya isn't the best choice for a LO that can't tolerate dairy. They may be fine on it at first, but as the proteins are very similar to cow's milk, they often develop an intolerance to soya as well. There are also recommendations that soy formula isn't given to babies under 6 months. The best choice is a hypoallergenic formula, but they are expensive and may be the reason why you were given soya instead. I would go back to the dr and see if you can trial a hypoallergenic formula such as C&G Pepti, Aptamil Pepti or Nutramigen Lipil 1. There are other even more expensive hypo formulas such as Neocate and Nutramigen AA, but they are for LOs with severe intolerance/allergy. My LO was on Nutramigen AA, but that was after trialling Aptamil Pepti for a couple of months.

With regards to being dairy free - it's fine. Hypo formulas (and probably soy) have all the vitamins and nutrients your LO will need.

HTH

 

[bubbles123]

I second what above poster says, a hypo allergic formula is the best choice for a baby under 6 months. A dairy free diet is fine though, there are many suitable plant milks, yogurt etc your lo can have when they are 1+.

 

[skunkpixie]

I agree with th above posters in a way. Recent studies have found a possible link between using a soy formula before 6 months and developing intestinal and reproductive problems in later life BUT at the moment it is just a possible link and you can still buy soy formula in the supermarket without a prescription. Your doctor probably thought soy formula was the best course of action to take in your baby's case. I think if he really wanted to save money he would have told you to just go out and buy soy formula yourself, but if you are worried give the surgery a call and discuss your concerns. xxx