Allergies and intolerances
Allergies and intolerances
Allergy
An allergy is when the immune system overreacts to a particular allergen, such as cows' milk protein allergy (CMPA). This can cause a number of different symptoms that affect the body, and the reaction may be immediate or delayed.
Intolerance
An intolerance is when the body can't process something properly, such as not having sufficient lactase enzymes to process lactose, and symptoms are usually abdominal discomfort such as bloating or diarrhoea.
In cows' milk protein allergy, it is usually the proteins that cause the issue. However, lactose in milk may cause symptoms due to lactose intolerance.
CMPA is an immune-mediated response to milk proteins and is the second most common childhood allergy (after egg allergy).19 CMPA affects a small percentage of babies. It may occur any time from birth, but most cases present before 12 months of age.20,21
CMPA can present in exclusively breastfed infants but is much rarer than in formula-fed infants. If diagnosed, this usually requires dietetic advice to completely exclude all sources of cows' milk protein from the mother's diet. Breastfeeding should then continue and be supported for as long as the mother wishes by ensuring that she has the guidance needed to eat a varied, healthy and balanced dairy-free diet.22
The following screen describes symptoms of CMPA, but accurately diagnosing CMPA can be difficult, so parents/carers who are concerned should be referred to their GP.