The Healthy Way

Monday, February 26, 2007

Baby love

Q: My baby is six months old and has suffered from severe abdominal gas pains since birth.

I breastfeed and through a process of elimination have found that she is sensitive to cow's milk protein.

Do you have any suggestions?

A: Most parents with similar problems often try soy-based formula.

It is possible that your baby will be sensitive to that as well, so you could try milk protein pre-digested formula made of simple amino acids to substitute breast milk. Another alternative is to use almond milk.

Grain cereals have been traditional foods for infants for generations and are fortified with iron. However it is easier for the baby to digest vegetables and fruits first because their digestion is still not fully developed.

Also, traditionally foods held back from infants, such as meats, are in fact appropriate for infants, as they can help promote optimal nutrition when introduced early in a child's feeding program.

Once a baby reaches six months, most any soft, hypoallergenic food is fine. Is it OK to offer meat first? Yes, but I would start with simpler foods such as applesauce or mashed sweet potato instead. The key is to allow enough time after introducing a new food to check for allergic reactions.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online here